Indulge your taste buds with the irresistible allure of Pasta alla Vodka Red, a dish that effortlessly combines the richness of creamy sauce with the bold flavors of marinara and a splash of vodka. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this Italian classic that promises to impress your family and friends alike. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Read on to discover the secrets behind making the perfect Pasta alla Vodka Red that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Do not add any oil or butter at this stage.
- Pour the vodka into the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the alcohol to reduce and burn off, creating a deeper flavor profile.
- Reduce the heat to low and carefully add the marinara sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine with the reduced vodka.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Maintain a low heat to prevent the cream from separating.
- Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the vodka sauce. Toss gently to ensure each pasta piece is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir to melt and integrate the cheese into the sauce.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates, ensuring an even distribution of sauce.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the rich, creamy texture and complex flavor of the Pasta alla Vodka Red.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While penne is traditional, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli, which can hold the sauce beautifully.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality vodka and fresh marinara sauce for the best flavor. If possible, make your own marinara for a personal touch.
- Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allowing the vodka to simmer before adding the marinara is crucial. This step enhances the flavor by burning off the alcohol and concentrating the essence of the vodka.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half. For a richer flavor, consider adding a bit more Parmesan cheese.
- Pasta Water is Your Friend: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. It’s a great way to adjust the sauce’s consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh basil adds a pop of color and flavor, so don’t be shy with your garnish. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can also add a delightful kick if you enjoy a little heat.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it right away to savor the creamy texture and vibrant flavors at their peak!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 620kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 110mg
