Vodka Sauce Recipe
This Vodka Sauce Recipe brings together silky tomato sauce, a whisper of vodka, and creamy richness for an easy, comforting pasta dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or mild olive oil
- 1 cup yellow onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup vodka 80 proof, unflavored
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes prefer San Marzano for bright tomato flavor
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated, plus extra for serving
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt adjust as needed
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 12 ounces penne pasta or rigatoni, fusilli
- to taste Fresh basil leaves torn, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter optional for silkiness
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne and cook until al dente. Drain, reserving pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, saute onions until translucent, then add garlic and red pepper flakes.
- Add vodka and let it cook off, then add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the sauce for 8-10 minutes, then stir in cream, Parmesan, and optional butter.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet, toss until coated, garnish with basil, and serve.
Notes
In late summer, you can swap in halved cherry tomatoes. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or pureed cauliflower. The alcohol in vodka mostly cooks off, leaving a subtle flavor.
Nutrition
Calories: 450kcal
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