Spicy Vodka Pasta Creamy Tomato (Printable)

Creamy, spicy vodka pasta with tomatoes, chili, and parmesan for a rich, comforting meal.

# Ingredient List:

→ Pasta

01 - 14 oz penne or rigatoni

→ Sauce

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 teaspoon red chili flakes, or more to taste
06 - 14 oz canned crushed tomatoes
07 - 1/4 cup vodka
08 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
09 - 2 oz grated parmesan cheese
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

11 - Fresh basil leaves, sliced (optional)
12 - Additional grated parmesan cheese (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Fill a large pot with water and season generously with salt. Bring to a boil. Add the penne or rigatoni and cook according to package directions until just al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
02 - While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
03 - Stir in the minced garlic and red chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the mixture to become fragrant.
04 - Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
05 - Stir in the vodka and cook for 2 to 3 minutes so the alcohol reduces while the sauce thickens slightly.
06 - Lower the heat and add the heavy cream and grated parmesan. Stir constantly until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
07 - Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water little by little until the sauce reaches desired consistency.
08 - Plate immediately, garnishing with fresh basil and extra parmesan as desired. Serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses everyday pantry ingredients you probably already have
  • Fast 30 minute dinner makes it great for busy nights
  • Restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort at home
  • Vegetarian friendly if you eat dairy
  • Rich and creamy without being heavy
02 -
  • High in protein and fiber from both the noodles and cheese
  • Easily adapted for alcohol-free or gluten-free diets
  • Crowd-pleaser ideal for both casual nights and dinner parties
03 -
  • Do not rush the aromatics step. Slowly sautéing onion and garlic is where the sauce builds its soul
  • Add the vodka off heat if you are anxious about flare ups and let it reduce until the sharp alcoholic smell dissipates
  • Grate your own parmesan for the very best melt Do not buy pre-grated which can be dry and less flavorful
  • Always reserve some pasta water for marrying the sauce at the end. It makes a silky emulsion and you will taste the difference

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