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Vodka Sauce

A creamy and rich vodka sauce that combines the flavors of tomatoes and garlic, perfect for a cozy pasta night.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 4 to 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Use for added heat
  • 1 cup vodka
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 ounces)
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream Use 1/2 cup for a lighter sauce
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 1 handful grated Parmesan, plus more to finish
  • to taste Fresh basil, if you have it
  • Reserved pasta water For adjusting sauce consistency

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Warm the olive oil and butter in a big skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and let it cook until soft and slightly golden, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and stir for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
Building the Sauce
  1. Stir in tomato paste and red pepper flakes. Let the paste cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
  2. Pour in the vodka, stirring and scraping up anything stuck to the pan, and let it bubble for about 2 minutes.
  3. Add crushed tomatoes with a pinch of salt and pepper, then lower the heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Finishing Touches
  1. Turn the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream, adjusting with reserved pasta water if too thick.
  2. Stir in grated Parmesan and adjust seasoning.
  3. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and ensure it's well coated.

Notes

Top with extra Parmesan, basil, and black pepper. This sauce holds well on low heat, making it great for meal prep.