Parmesan Vodka Pasta Recipe
A rich, cheesy vodka pasta with a velvety sauce loaded with parmesan, perfect for indulgence without an ounce of regret.
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.