Treat yourself to a creamy and flavorful Pasta alla Vodka, a classic Italian pasta dish featuring a rich tomato and vodka-infused sauce.
This recipe is perfect for a special dinner at home and is sure to impress with its delicious taste.
Follow these steps to make Pasta alla Vodka that’s creamy, comforting, and utterly satisfying!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta or your favorite pasta shape
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
Equipment:
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Grater
- Serving bowl
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Vodka Sauce:
In a skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the vodka and simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off and the sauce to reduce slightly.
Add the Crushed Tomatoes:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the Heavy Cream and Parmesan:
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine Sauce with Pasta:
Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the vodka sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the Pasta alla Vodka to a serving bowl or individual plates.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips and Variations:
For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be less creamy.
Add cooked shrimp, chicken, or pancetta to the sauce for extra protein and flavor.
If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a blender to puree the tomatoes before adding the cream and cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Enjoy Your Pasta alla Vodka!
Indulge in the velvety richness of this Pasta alla Vodka with its creamy tomato sauce and hint of vodka.
Serve it as a main course for a special dinner or as part of a festive Italian feast.
Pair it with a glass of wine and some crusty bread for the ultimate dining experience!