Simple Homemade Creamy Tomato Vodka Sauce Pasta - A delicious recipe by DigiDish

Simple Homemade Creamy Tomato Vodka Sauce Pasta

Gather around, pasta lovers—this one’s a game-changer! Let’s talk about silky, rich tomato vodka sauce that’s so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever bought store-bought. With just the right kick of creaminess and flavor, this recipe will make your kitchen the hottest dinner spot in town!

5.0 out of 5 (2 ratings)

Picture this: you’re home after a long day, craving something cozy, indulgent, and downright delicious. Enter: Simple Homemade Creamy Tomato Vodka Sauce Pasta. This dish is your weeknight hero, your culinary BFF, your reason to ditch the jarred stuff forever. It’s rich, luscious, and feels like something you’d order at a fancy Italian restaurant, but it’s totally doable in your own kitchen. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about saying, “Oh, this? I made it from scratch.” You’ll be channeling serious chef vibes in no time!

Simple Homemade Creamy Tomato Vodka Sauce Pasta Recipe

What makes this pasta recipe so special? It’s all about balance, my friend. The tomato base gives it that tangy, familiar comfort, while the vodka (don’t worry, the alcohol cooks off!) works magic to enhance the flavors. Then, in comes the heavy cream for that silky-smooth texture that coats every noodle in pure bliss. Oh, and did I mention the secret kick? A little pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat to keep your taste buds on their toes. It’s a simple combination that feels gourmet, and honestly, that’s the ultimate win.

Here’s a handy tip to ensure your sauce sings: don’t skimp on simmering time! Letting the tomatoes, vodka, and cream hang out on the stovetop allows their flavors to meld beautifully—it’s like a little pasta party in the pot. Also, save some of that pasta water before draining! Just a splash can help your sauce stick to the noodles, making it extra velvety. And for the love of all things delicious, don’t forget a handful of fresh basil or parsley on top. Trust me, it’s the confetti your pasta deserves.

When it’s time to plate up, get creative with your variations. Try this sauce with penne, rigatoni, or even over gnocchi for a change of pasta scenery. Want to up the protein? Toss in some cooked shrimp or grilled chicken. Going vegetarian? Stir in roasted veggies like zucchini or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless, and that’s the beauty of this dish—it adapts to your mood and pantry without skipping a beat. So grab your apron and let this creamy tomato vodka sauce pasta bring some joy to your table tonight. You’ve got this!

Keywords: creamy vodka sauce pasta recipe, how to make tomato vodka sauce, simple homemade pasta sauce, easy Italian dinner idea, best creamy tomato pasta, tomato vodka sauce with cream, weeknight pasta recipes

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

Italian

Ingredients

  • •12 ounces penne pasta
  • •2 tablespoons olive oil
  • •3 cloves garlic, minced
  • •1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • •1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • •1/2 cup heavy cream
  • •1/3 cup vodka
  • •1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • •1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • •1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
  • •2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.

  2. 2

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

  3. 3

    Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

  4. 4

    Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine.

  5. 5

    Let the tomato sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  6. 6

    Stir in the heavy cream and vodka, and allow the sauce to simmer gently for another 5 minutes, until slightly thickened.

  7. 7

    Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.

  8. 8

    Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing until well coated.

  9. 9

    Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing thoroughly until melted and creamy.

  10. 10

    Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil, if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories

450 calories

Protein

15g

Carbs

60g

Fat

15g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I substitute the vodka in the recipe?

A: Yes, if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can omit the vodka entirely, though it adds a subtle depth to the sauce. Alternatively, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: Absolutely! While penne works well because it holds the sauce nicely, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

Q: How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

A: To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor.

Q: What should I do if the sauce is too thick?

A: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out by adding a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water or a bit of broth. Add a small amount at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Q: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance. Let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop, and stir in the pasta just before serving.

Q: What is the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce, and warm over low heat while stirring frequently.

Q: Can I add protein or vegetables to this recipe?

A: Yes, you can customize this recipe by adding cooked proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage. For vegetables, sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini would make excellent additions. Add them to the sauce before tossing in the pasta.

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