Spicy vodka pasta is a delicious and creamy pasta dish with a spicy kick, made with a rich tomato sauce, a splash of vodka, and a creamy finish. The vodka adds depth and a slight tang to the sauce, while the spice level can be adjusted to your taste. This dish combines bold flavors with a smooth, velvety texture that coats every bite of pasta. It’s the perfect comfort food for those who love a bit of heat in their meals.
Quick Facts
| Course | Main Course |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Italian |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 4-6 |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Calories | 550 per serving |
Equipment Needed
To make the best spicy vodka pasta, you’ll need the following:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for the sauce
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife and chopping board
- Grater (for Parmesan cheese, optional)
- Strainer for draining pasta
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious dish:
- 1 lb (450g) pasta (penne is ideal)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Vodka: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Add the vodka, and let it cook down for another 2 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
- Add Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce becomes thick and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine. Let it simmer together for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the pasta in bowls, and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
Essential Note:
- Adjust Spice: If you want more spice, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes. For a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes altogether.
- Alcohol-Free Option: If you’d prefer to avoid the vodka, you can replace it with a splash of vegetable broth or water, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 |
| Carbohydrates | 75g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Potassium | 500mg |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Vitamin A | 8% |
| Vitamin C | 10% |
| Calcium | 10% |
| Iron | 8% |
Recipe Notes
- Pasta Type: While penne is a classic choice, you can use any pasta you like, such as rigatoni, spaghetti, or fettuccine. Just make sure it’s hearty enough to hold the creamy sauce.
- Make Ahead: This recipe can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit of cream or pasta water to thin it out if necessary.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan version, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative and skip the Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Overcooking pasta can lead to a mushy dish. Always aim for al dente pasta, which adds a satisfying bite to your spicy vodka pasta.
- Balance the Spice: If you’re worried about the heat, start with a small amount of red pepper flakes and adjust to your liking. Adding a bit of sugar or more cream can help balance out the spice if it becomes too intense.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs bring out the best flavors in this recipe. They add an aromatic base that enhances the sauce’s depth.
Conclusion
Spicy vodka pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy any pasta lover’s craving for something creamy and spicy. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner or impressing guests, this recipe will not disappoint. Its smooth texture, zesty heat, and rich flavors make it a standout meal that’s easy to prepare and customize. So, grab your ingredients and enjoy this mouthwatering Italian classic right at home.
