Pasta Alla Vodka is a creamy and tangy dish that brings a smile to your face. Made with pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and a splash of vodka, it’s simply yummy!
I love how quick it is to whip up after a long day. Just cook the pasta, mix in that tasty sauce, and dinner is ready! What more could you want? 🍝✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This is the classic choice for Pasta Alla Vodka. If you don’t have penne, feel free to swap in fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti for a different texture.
Olive Oil: Olive oil gives a nice flavor to the dish. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer a different taste or if olive oil isn’t available.
Onion and Garlic: Onions add sweetness and garlic adds punch. If you’re short on time, garlic powder works in a pinch, but fresh is best for flavor. Shallots are a nice gentle substitute for onion.
Vodka: Vodka helps bring out the flavor of the tomatoes and cream. If you want a non-alcoholic version, just skip it and add a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
Heavy Cream: This is key for the creamy texture. You can use half-and-half for a lighter option, or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce. Pecorino Romano is a great alternative if you’re looking for a different cheese flavor.
How Can I Get the Sauce to Thicken Perfectly?
Thickening the sauce just right can make or break your dish. Here’s how to get it spot on:
- After adding the crushed tomatoes, let it simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavors and reduce the liquid.
- Stir in the heavy cream slowly and continue cooking on low heat. This allows it to thicken naturally.
- If after mixing in the pasta the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. It will help loosen the mix without losing flavor.
Taking your time with simmering will give you a beautiful, creamy consistency that coats each piece of pasta. Happy cooking!
How to Make Pasta Alla Vodka
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pasta Alla Vodka takes about 20 minutes to prepare and a few minutes to cook. You’ll get a creamy, flavorful dish on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will build a lovely base for your sauce!
3. Add Garlic and Spice:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and the red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook them together for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Pour in the Vodka:
Now, carefully pour in the vodka. Let it simmer on medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce by half. This lets some of the alcohol cook off and enhances the flavors!
5. Stir in Tomatoes:
Once the vodka has reduced, stir in the crushed tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will bring all those delicious flavors together.
6. Add Cream:
Lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to cook for another 3-5 minutes so the sauce can thicken slightly. It should become rich and creamy!
7. Combine Pasta:
Now, add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing it to ensure every piece is well coated. If the sauce looks a bit thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
8. Finish with Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This step will make your dish extra delicious!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Pasta Alla Vodka immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and some fresh chopped parsley or basil. Enjoy your meal!
This creamy, tangy Pasta Alla Vodka is perfect for a cozy dinner. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is traditional, you can use other pasta types like fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just keep an eye on the cooking times as they may vary.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Vodka?
Yes, you can make this dish without vodka! Just skip it and add a splash of lemon juice for a touch of acidity if desired. Your pasta will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to refresh the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but if you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.
