Creamy Vodka Pasta (Penne alla Vodka)
Description
Vodka Pasta is a classic Italian-American comfort dish known for its silky, tomato-cream sauce with a subtle kick. The vodka doesn’t make the dish boozy—instead, it enhances the tomatoes, releasing deeper flavors and giving the sauce that signature restaurant-style depth. Finished with cream, butter, and Parmesan, this pasta is luxurious, cozy, and perfect for both weeknights and special dinners.
Time & Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
400 g (14 oz) penne or rigatoni pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped (or 2 shallots)
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
½–1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
½ cup vodka
1 cup tomato purée or crushed tomatoes
¾ cup heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
¼ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Optional add-ins
Cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage
Crispy beef or turkey bacon
Mushrooms or spinach
Instructions
Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
Build the flavor base
Heat olive oil and butter in a wide pan over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add garlic & chili flakes
Stir in garlic and chili flakes. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let garlic brown).
Deglaze with vodka
Pour in the vodka and simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the sauce to slightly reduce.
Tomato time
Add tomato purée, salt, and black pepper. Simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Make it creamy
Lower the heat and stir in the cream. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until smooth and glossy.
Finish the sauce
Add Parmesan cheese and a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Combine & serve
Toss the pasta in the sauce until fully coated. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with garlic bread or focaccia
Serve alongside a simple green salad
Finish with extra chili flakes for heat lovers
Questions & Answers
Q: Does vodka pasta taste like alcohol?
A: No. The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind enhanced tomato flavor and richness.
Q: Can I skip the vodka?
A: Yes. Replace it with vegetable or chicken stock plus a squeeze of lemon—but vodka gives the best authentic flavor.
Q: What’s the best pasta shape for vodka sauce?
A: Penne and rigatoni are ideal because their ridges hold the sauce beautifully.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. This recipe is vegetarian as written—just ensure the Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Yes! Increase chili flakes or add a spoon of chili paste.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: Yes. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.