Desserts
Creamy Vodka Pasta Perfection
Rich, velvety, and utterly indulgent, this Creamy Vodka Pasta Perfection recipe is a modern classic. The tangy tomato sauce combined with smooth cream, a splash of vodka, and perfectly cooked pasta makes for a dish that’s as easy as it is impressive. Ideal for weeknight dinners or a cozy date night!
Conclusion
Creamy Vodka Pasta is the perfect indulgence for any pasta lover. With its luxurious sauce and comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for dinner. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or a dinner party, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Creamy Vodka Pasta Perfection
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich, velvety, and utterly indulgent, this Creamy Vodka Pasta Perfection recipe is a modern classic. The tangy tomato sauce combined with smooth cream, a splash of vodka, and perfectly cooked pasta makes for a dish that’s as easy as it is impressive. Ideal for weeknight dinners or a cozy date night!
Ingredients
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Make the Base for the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze with Vodka:
- Stir in the vodka, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol and deepen the flavor.
- Add Tomatoes and Cream:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, cooking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Finish with Cheese and Herbs:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Divide into bowls, garnish with more Parmesan and basil, and serve immediately.
