Vodka Pasta

Vodka pasta is a creamy, comforting pasta dish with a subtle tang and rich tomato flavor. The sauce blends vodka, tomatoes, and cream for a smooth, luscious finish that clings to every noodle. I like to stir the sauce gently as it simmers to develop a silky texture. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or cold evenings, this recipe is easy to prepare and delivers restaurant-style flavor at home without fuss.

a plate of creamy vodka pasta on 2

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You’ll love this vodka pasta for its creamy texture, balanced flavor, and quick prep. It’s cozy and weeknight-friendly, coming together in under 30 minutes using simple pantry ingredients. The recipe is flexible—you can add chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for variety. Leftovers reheat well, making it freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep. Affordable and satisfying, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s ideal for busy families or casual dinners. Save it on Pinterest for a comforting, fuss-free pasta dinner anytime.

a plate of creamy vodka pasta on 3

Ingredients

Tip: Use penne or rigatoni pasta so the sauce clings to every bite.

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup vodka
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
all the ingredients of vodka pasta recipe

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Dice onion, mince garlic, and measure cream, vodka, and tomatoes so everything is ready for quick cooking.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Add red pepper flakes if using, stirring to release flavor.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Pour in vodka and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper, letting the sauce bubble gently for 5–7 minutes.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Sprinkle Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This vodka pasta cooks in one pan for the sauce and one pot for pasta, keeping cleanup minimal. It’s quick, with under 30 minutes total time, and leftovers reheat beautifully. Perfect for Pinterest users who want cozy, ready-to-eat dinners without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tips & Tricks

  • Prevent Splatter: Lower heat when adding cream to avoid sauce splashing or curdling. Stir gently.
  • Pasta Texture: Cook pasta slightly al dente so it finishes cooking in the sauce and absorbs flavor.
  • Flavor Balance: Taste sauce before serving; add a pinch of salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.
  • Creamy Finish: Stir in Parmesan off the heat to prevent separation and keep sauce smooth.

Variations

  • Meaty Version: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp to the sauce for a hearty, protein-packed meal.
  • Vegetarian Option: Include sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra vegetables and texture.
  • Ingredient Swap: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter, still creamy sauce.
  • Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a teaspoon of tomato paste to deepen flavor and richness.

Serving Suggestions

  • Classic Dinner: Serve with garlic bread and a simple side salad for a complete meal.
  • Family Style: Pair with steamed vegetables or roasted broccoli for added nutrition.
  • Casual Lunch: Enjoy leftovers tossed with a fried egg or shredded cheese for a quick lunch.
  • Pinterest Presentation: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a dusting of Parmesan for a photogenic finish.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge Storage: Store cooled pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.
  • Reheating: Warm over low heat with a splash of cream or water to restore saucy consistency.
  • Freezing: Freeze sauce separately for up to 2 months. Add cooked pasta fresh when serving.
  • Make-ahead Tips: Prepare sauce ahead and refrigerate; toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready for a quick dinner.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Rest Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Calories: 450–500 per serving
Protein: 12–15g per serving
Key nutrients: protein from cheese, vitamins from tomato sauce
Values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients or portion sizes.

FAQs

Yes, store sauce and pasta separately; combine when reheating.

Simmer longer to reduce or add a bit of cream to thicken.

Any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle works well.

Avoid boiling after adding cream; stir gently over low heat.

3 days in fridge; sauce can be frozen for 2 months.

Conclusion

Vodka pasta is a cozy, creamy dish that’s simple to make and full of flavor. You can customize it with extra vegetables, protein, or spices to suit your taste. Quick to cook, easy to reheat, and always satisfying, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family meals. Keep it in rotation for an easy, comforting dinner that’s sure to please everyone.

Vodka Pasta
Print

Vodka Pasta

Recipe by Edan SalamonCourse: Pasta Recipes
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

500

kcal

Creamy vodka pasta with a rich tomato sauce, tossed with penne and garnished with Parmesan and basil. Quick, comforting, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne pasta

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 1/2 cup vodka

  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

  • Cook pasta according to package instructions. Dice onion and garlic.
  • Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add red pepper flakes if using.
  • Pour in vodka, simmer 2–3 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, salt, and pepper, simmer 5–7 minutes.
  • Reduce heat, add cream, toss in pasta, sprinkle Parmesan, garnish with basil, and serve warm.

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