Go Back
–+ servings
A Creamy and Flavorful Pasta Sauce

A Creamy and Flavorful Pasta Sauce for Cozy Nights In

This creamy vodka sauce is a delicious ritual that transforms any dinner into a moment worth savoring.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 3 tbsp Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Can substitute with shallots
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh preferred, but garlic powder works in a pinch
  • 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes San Marzano recommended
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste No direct substitute
For Creaminess and Flavor
  • 1/2 cup Vodka For non-alcoholic, substitute with broth
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Alternatives include half-and-half or coconut cream
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Can substitute with nutritional yeast
For the Kick
  • 1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Basil Can substitute with parsley

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Pot for Pasta

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
  2. Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté for approximately 5 minutes until translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Mix in the tomato paste, vodka, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and water, stirring well to combine. Let bubble for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Prepare the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Serve the pasta topped with the creamy vodka sauce and garnish with extra Parmesan and basil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 8gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This creamy vodka sauce pairs wonderfully with garlic pasta or a refreshing salad. Reserve some starchy pasta water for the perfect consistency.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!