Tomato Basil Vodka Pasta Recipe
This isn’t just pasta—it’s a full-on flavor explosion. Tomatoes bring the richness, basil adds freshness, and vodka sneaks in like a smooth troublemaker. The sauce clings to the pasta like it owes it money, while a splash of cream creates that dreamy texture. Parmesan melts into the mix, bringing the perfect umami kick. It’s indulgent, a little boozy, and ridiculously easy to make. One bite, and you’ll wonder why you ever settled for bland pasta. Grab your fork, pour a glass of wine, and dig in. Just don’t let the basil steal all the attention.
Tomato Basil Vodka Pasta Recipe
A creamy, herb-infused vodka pasta that blends sweet tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of indulgence into one unforgettable dish.
Ingredients
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ½ small onion finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup vodka
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup fresh basil chopped
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni
- Water for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water
- For Garnish:
- ½ cup parmesan grated
- Extra basil for topping
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 deepen the 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.
- Combine everything: Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Stir until the sauce coats every piece.
- Finish with basil: Stir in fresh basil, letting the flavors come together.
- Serve immediately: Garnish with parmesan and extra basil. Enjoy every last saucy bite.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 570
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 72g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
Vitamin & Mineral Content (Per Serving)
- Vitamin A: 14%
- Calcium: 16%
- Iron: 10%
- Potassium: 9%
- Vitamin B6: 7%
Flavor-Boosting Tips
- Use San Marzano tomatoes for a naturally sweet, rich sauce.
- Stir in more fresh basil at the end for extra herbaceous goodness.
- Don’t skimp on the parmesan—it’s the salty balance this dish needs.
- Add a pat of butter at the end for an ultra-silky finish.
- Serve with garlic bread because carbs deserve carbs.
