Imagine the crackle of a campfire, the scent of fresh pasta wafting through the air, and the rich aroma of a creamy vodka sauce mingling with the night sky. Welcome to the ultimate outdoor dining experience with our Campfire Pasta with Vodka Cream Sauce! This delightful Italian dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for those who love to cook under the stars. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will impress your friends and family. Ready to elevate your camping cuisine? Let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent recipe that promises to be a crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients: 8 oz of pasta, 1/4 cup of vodka, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of marinara sauce, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Set up your campfire or portable stove, ensuring you have a pot for boiling water and a skillet for the sauce. If using a campfire, make sure to have a stable grate over the fire.
- Fill a pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and place it over the fire or on the stove to bring it to a boil. This will be used to cook the pasta.
- While waiting for the water to boil, heat the skillet over medium heat. Add the tablespoon of olive oil and let it warm up for about a minute.
- Once the water is boiling, add the pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- As the pasta cooks, add the vodka to the heated skillet. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off slightly.
- Next, pour in the heavy cream and marinara sauce into the skillet with the vodka. Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the vodka cream sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until the cheese is melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Campfire Pasta with Vodka Cream Sauce hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious meal under the stars!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To make your cooking process smoother, gather and measure all your ingredients before you head out. This will save you time and hassle when you’re ready to cook.
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like penne or fusilli. They’ll capture every bit of that delicious vodka cream sauce!
- Control the Flame: If using a campfire, ensure you have a stable grate and control the heat to avoid burning the sauce. A portable stove can provide more consistent heat.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the vodka to simmer long enough to cook off the alcohol. This enhances the flavor without the harshness of raw vodka.
- Adjust Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help create a creamy, luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Garnish for Flavor: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish and add a pop of color.
- Enjoy the Experience: Cooking outdoors is all about enjoying the moment. Take your time, savor the flavors, and relish the company of friends and nature!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 85mg
