Pasta Alla Vodka Recipe (Creamy Tomato pasta)

Pasta alla Vodka is a creamy tomato-based pasta dish that combines the richness of cream with the tanginess of tomato paste, enhanced by a splash of vodka. This Italian-American classic is known for its smooth, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to pasta, making each bite indulgent and satisfying. The vodka helps to emulsify the cream and tomato, creating a harmonious blend that's both comforting and elegant.

Pasta Alla Vodka Recipe

We make pasta dishes often with different sauces. My sister’s favourite pasta dish is this one. It is rich, creamy and delicious dish which you don’t want to eat it often because it increases your waist line. It can be served for parties or any special occasions. You could have some garlic bread with this and it taste awesome. I hope you love it and let me know what you think.

Jump to:

• About Pasta alla vodka
• Ingredients
• Hacks 
• Pasta Alla Vodka (Stepwise Pictures)
• Expert Tips
• FAQ
• Variations 
• 📖 Recipe Card

About Pasta alla vodka

This recipe is a go-to pasta dish in our household, especially when we're craving something rich and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of garlic, onions, tomato paste, and cream creates a sauce that's both robust and silky. Adding vodka not only deepens the flavor but also brings a subtle sharpness that balances the creaminess. It's a dish that's perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less red chili flakes, and it's simple to make vegetarian by omitting any meat additions. The ingredients are pantry staples, making it convenient to whip up without a special trip to the store. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser everyone from kids to adults enjoys its comforting flavors.

Why I Love This Recipe - There's something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta. For me, this dish brings back memories of cozy family dinners, where the aroma of garlic and tomatoes filled the kitchen. It's a recipe that brings people together, and I love how it always leaves everyone satisfied and happy. Plus, it's a great way to impress guests without too much fuss. What I especially appreciate is how this recipe manages to impress guests without requiring hours in the kitchen. Its simplicity is its strength, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine through. Each time I prepare it, I'm reminded of the joy that comes from cooking for loved ones and the simple pleasures of sharing a delicious meal together.

This dish holds a special place in my heart, not just for its taste but for the memories it evokes. It's reminiscent of cozy family dinners, laughter around the table, and the joy of sharing a meal made with love. Whether it's a quiet evening at home or a gathering with friends, Pasta alla Vodka never fails to bring warmth and satisfaction.

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Why This Recipe Works

Balanced Flavors: The combination of tomato paste and cream creates a harmonious blend where the acidity of the tomatoes is mellowed by the richness of the cream. The addition of vodka introduces a subtle sharpness that enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering it.

Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes. It's perfect for those evenings when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile: This recipe is adaptable to various preferences. You can switch up the type of pasta, add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or even incorporate vegetables for added texture and nutrition.

Flavor Enhancement: Cooking the tomato paste until it darkens slightly intensifies its flavor, adding depth to the sauce. The vodka helps in emulsifying the sauce, ensuring a smooth consistency that binds the ingredients together seamlessly.

Ingredients

Olive Oil (3 tablespoons): Olive oil is the base of the sauce, used to sauté the garlic and onions. It adds a subtle, fruity flavor that helps to kickstart the flavor-building process. The richness of olive oil also complements the creaminess of the sauce, making every bite feel indulgent.

Garlic (3 tablespoons, finely chopped): Garlic is a key aromatic ingredient in this recipe. When finely chopped and sautéed in olive oil, it releases its aromatic oils, infusing the sauce with a bold, fragrant flavor. It’s the kind of depth that makes this dish feel cozy and satisfying.

Onion (1 large, finely chopped): Onions add a natural sweetness and a bit of depth to the sauce. When sautéed, they soften and mellow out, balancing the richness of the cream and the acidity of the tomato paste. Their flavor forms a perfect foundation for the rest of the ingredients to shine.

Tomato Paste (3⁄4 cup): Tomato paste is the heart of the sauce, giving it a deep, concentrated tomato flavor and a rich, vibrant red color. It’s thicker than regular tomato sauce, which helps the sauce to cling to the pasta more effectively, making every bite flavorful.

Red Chili Flakes or Powder (2 teaspoons): Chili flakes or chili powder bring a gentle heat that perfectly balances the creaminess of the sauce. While it’s not meant to make the dish spicy, it adds just enough kick to complement the smooth richness of the cream and tomato.

Dried Oregano (2 teaspoons): Dried oregano adds a warm, herbal note to the sauce. It’s a classic Italian herb that enhances the overall flavor of the dish, bringing out the savory depth and giving the sauce that extra something special.

Cream (400 milliliters): Cream is what gives this dish its signature creamy, luxurious texture. It’s the ingredient that transforms the tomato base into a rich, velvety sauce that clings to the pasta. The creaminess balances the acidity of the tomato paste, making every bite smooth and comforting.

White Wine or Vodka (1⁄4 cup, optional): Adding white wine or vodka brings a subtle, complex layer of flavor to the sauce. The vodka, in particular, helps emulsify the cream and tomato paste, allowing them to come together beautifully and creating a smoother, more harmonious sauce.

Sugar (1 teaspoon): A small amount of sugar helps balance the natural acidity of the tomato paste. It rounds out the flavors in the sauce, ensuring it doesn’t taste too sharp or tangy, which can sometimes happen with tomato-based sauces.

Dried Parsley (2 teaspoons): Dried parsley adds a hint of freshness and a touch of color to the finished dish. It’s a simple ingredient, but it enhances the overall visual appeal and adds a bit of brightness to the sauce.

Parmesan Cheese (1⁄2 cup): Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty flavor that complements the creamy sauce. It also helps to thicken the sauce slightly, making it richer and more indulgent.  Freshly grated parmesan works best for the richest flavor.

Butter (2 tablespoons): A small knob of butter at the end of the cooking process helps to finish the sauce. It gives the sauce an extra layer of richness and a silky texture that makes every bite feel luxurious.

Dried Pasta (500 grams): Rigatoni is a great choice for this dish because its large, ridged shape helps to hold the sauce well. However, feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer – penne, spaghetti, or farfalle will all work beautifully too.

Hacks 

Use Tomato Paste for Depth: Opt for tomato paste instead of canned tomatoes. Its concentrated flavor intensifies the sauce's richness and imparts a vibrant color. Cooking the paste until it darkens slightly enhances its sweetness and depth.

Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your pasta, save a cup of the starchy cooking water. This liquid gold helps loosen the sauce and allows it to adhere better to the pasta, creating a cohesive dish.

Add Vodka Carefully: When incorporating vodka into the sauce, remove the pan from direct heat to prevent any flare-ups. Allow the vodka to simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol, leaving behind its subtle flavor that enhances the sauce's complexity.

Finish with Butter: Stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking. This simple step adds a glossy finish and enriches the sauce's texture, making it silky and indulgent.

Pasta Alla Vodka (Stepwise Pictures)

1)Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

2)Add the chopped garlic and onion, sautéing until they're soft and translucent. 

3)Saute them until fragrant.

4)Stir in the tomato paste, cooking it for a few minutes to deepen its flavor. 

5)Saute them for 4 to 5 minutes.

6)Add the red chilli flakes, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and sugar. 

7)Pour in the vodka (if using) and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to cook off the alcohol.

8)I cooked it for 2 to 3 minutes.

9)Then, add the cream, stirring until the sauce is smooth and well combined.

10)Mix well.

11)Add in the butter into the sauce.

12)Add parmesan cheese as well.

13)While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining.

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat it evenly. 

15)If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

16)Add in dried parsley and mix well.

17)Pasta is ready to serve.

18)Enjoy.

Expert Tips

Stir Regularly: Once the cream is added to the sauce, make sure to stir it often. Cream can sometimes cause the sauce to stick to the pan, so stirring helps to keep everything smooth and ensures the flavors combine well. Regular stirring will also help prevent any burnt bits from forming.

Adjust Consistency: If you find that the sauce becomes too thick, don’t worry! You can easily adjust it by adding some of the reserved pasta water. The starchy water helps loosen the sauce while also allowing it to cling better to the pasta. Start with a little and keep adding until you reach your desired consistency.

Storing Leftovers: If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for up to two days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the pasta on the stove. Add a splash of milk or cream to help bring the sauce back to its smooth, creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions: For a complete meal, serve your Pasta alla Vodka with a side of crispy garlic bread or a fresh, green salad. The combination of the rich, creamy pasta with a crunchy side dish or refreshing salad makes for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

FAQ

Can I use regular milk instead of cream?

You can certainly use regular milk, but the sauce won't be as rich and creamy as it would with heavy cream. If you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half is a good middle ground between milk and cream, giving you a bit more richness without being too heavy.

Is the vodka necessary?

The vodka does help to enhance the flavor and gives the sauce a nice depth. However, if you'd rather skip it, you absolutely can. The dish will still be delicious without it—it's just one of those optional ingredients that adds a little something special.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms work wonderfully with this dish. You can easily make it heartier by adding a protein of your choice. It’s a great way to customize the recipe to your taste or dietary preferences.

Variations 

Spicy Kick: If you love some heat, try adding more red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce. Adjust it to your preferred spice level for a flavorful kick!

Herbaceous Twist: To add more freshness, consider stirring in some fresh basil or thyme. These herbs can really elevate the sauce and give it a beautiful aromatic flavor.

Cheesy Delight: For extra creaminess and a gooey texture, try mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina. These cheeses melt beautifully and add a different flavor profile.

Vegan Version: To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives. You can also skip the vodka if you prefer, and still enjoy a tasty, creamy dish.

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