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Spicy Vodka Pasta

Close-up of spicy vodka pasta with penne, tomato sauce, parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and basil leaves.
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A creamy, chili-infused tomato pasta dish, famous online. This recipe offers pantry-friendly ingredient swaps and a non-alcoholic option.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup vodka (optional, or substitute with more pasta water)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions in salted water. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Stir in heavy cream and vodka (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  6. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Add drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat.
  8. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  9. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
  10. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the vodka and add an extra 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water to the sauce.
  • You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it may not be as rich.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
  • This dish pairs well with a simple green salad.
  • Consider this recipe as a base for meal planning, easily adaptable for weeknight dinners.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/spicy-vodka-pasta/