Pasta alla Vodka is a wonderfully creamy, tomato-based dish that brings joy to every bite! It’s incredibly easy to whip up with just a few ingredients—making it the ideal choice for a delightful weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: under 30 minutes

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

1 pound pasta of choice

1 tablespoon cooking oil

1/4 onion or small, minced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional

Salt

1 cup vodka

28 ounces crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 cup heavy cream

1 pound pasta of choice, I like tubular pasta in this application

1 1/2 cups pasta water, reserved

1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated freshly) more for garnish

2 tablespoons butter

Italian parsley and Parmesan-Reggiano as garnish

What to do:

Fill a large pot with water and add one tablespoon of salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat.

Add the penne pasta to boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

While your pasta is cooking in a large saucepan, set over medium-low heat, add the oil. When warm, add the minced onion, garlic, pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Pour in the vodka and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Stir in the tomatoes and tomato paste, bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat, pour in the heavy cream, and mix until smooth and heated through.

Pour in 1/2 cup of pasta water, along with the grated Parmesan-Reggiano, and taste. Add salt to taste. Pour in the pasta and then add the cold butter. Mix vigorously for 1 minute, until thick and luscious, adding more pasta water if needed.

Garnish and serve!