Parmesan Vodka Pasta Recipe
If you think parmesan makes everything better, you’re absolutely right. This vodka pasta doesn’t just have cheese—it practically worships it. The creamy sauce clings to every noodle like it’s holding on for dear life. Vodka smooths out the tangy tomato while parmesan melts into a rich, salty dream. It’s indulgent but effortless, classy yet comfort food, and dangerously easy to devour. One forkful, and you’ll question why anyone eats pasta without an absurd amount of cheese. So, grab your parmesan, pour some vodka (for the sauce, obviously), and get ready for pure carb-loaded bliss.

Parmesan Vodka Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ small onion finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup vodka
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup parmesan grated
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni
- Water for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water
For Garnish:
- Extra parmesan because why not?
- Fresh basil optional but highly recommended
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a pan, then cook garlic and onion until fragrant and golden.
- Build the base: Stir in red pepper flakes and tomato paste. Cook for 3 minutes to develop deep flavors.
- Deglaze with vodka: Pour it in, scraping the pan’s bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
- Simmer the sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Stir and let it thicken for 5 minutes.
- Make it creamy: Stir in heavy cream, blending it into a smooth, rich sauce.
- Cheese it up: Add parmesan, stirring until fully melted and silky.
- Combine everything: Toss in cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Stir until coated in cheesy goodness.
- Serve immediately: Garnish with more parmesan and fresh basil. Enjoy shamelessly.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 620
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 72g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 19g
Vitamin & Mineral Content (Per Serving)
- Calcium: 22%
- Vitamin A: 18%
- Iron: 11%
- Potassium: 9%
- Magnesium: 8%
Flavor-Boosting Tips
- Use aged parmesan for a sharper, nuttier flavor.
- Stir in a little butter at the end for a glossy finish.
- Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.
- Serve with crusty garlic bread—because carbs deserve company.
- Double the cheese if you want zero regrets.