Spicy Creamy Vodka Tomato Pasta
Indulge in this rich and savory Spicy Creamy Vodka Tomato Pasta, where al dente pasta meets a delightful blend of flavors. This dish features juicy Italian sausage for heartiness, a splash of vodka for depth, and a luxuriously smooth cream sauce with a hint of spice from chili flakes. Perfect for date nights or a cozy meal with family, this pasta dish is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Serve it garnished with fresh parsley to add color and freshness, and enjoy a comforting bowl that tells a story of delicious Italian cuisine.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1/4 cup (measured)
garlic
4 cloves (minced)
chili flakes
1/2 teaspoon (measured)
crushed tomatoes
1 (28 ounce) can (canned)
salt
3/4 teaspoon (measured)
pasta
1 lb (dry)
vodka
2 tablespoons (measured)
35% cream
1/2 cup (measured)
fresh parsley
1/4 cup (chopped)
Italian sausages
2 (removed from casing and crumbled)
Instructions
1
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2
Add the Italian sausages to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking them apart into small pieces as they cook.
3
Once the sausages are cooked through, add the minced garlic and chili flakes. Sauté until the garlic turns golden and fragrant.
4
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and salt; bring the mixture to a boil.
5
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6
While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package instructions in a separate pot, then drain.
7
After the sauce has simmered, carefully stir in the vodka and cream, bringing the sauce back to a gentle boil.
8
Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to ensure it is well coated.
9
Finish by adding freshly chopped parsley and toss gently before serving. Enjoy hot!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Creamy Vodka Tomato Pasta?
It is a rich, savory dish featuring Italian sausage, a creamy tomato sauce with vodka, and a hint of spice from chili flakes.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Any dry pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works great because their shapes help hold the creamy sauce.
Can I make this recipe without vodka?
Yes, you can omit the vodka if preferred, though it adds a unique depth of flavor and helps emulsify the sauce.
How do I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
You can increase or decrease the amount of chili flakes according to your personal heat preference.
What is 35% cream?
This is heavy whipping cream, which provides a thick and luxurious texture to the vodka sauce.
Can I use half-and-half instead of 35% cream?
Yes, but keep in mind the sauce will be thinner and less rich than if using heavy cream.
Should I use mild or spicy Italian sausage?
Both work well; use spicy sausage if you want an extra kick or mild for a more balanced flavor.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the Italian sausage or replace it with a plant-based sausage alternative.
How long should I cook the sausages?
Cook them until they are thoroughly browned and fully cooked through, breaking them into small pieces as they sizzle.
How do I avoid burning the garlic?
Sauté the minced garlic only until it turns golden and fragrant, which usually takes about one minute over medium heat.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
You can, but canned crushed tomatoes are recommended for a consistent, smooth sauce texture and concentrated flavor.
What is the role of vodka in this pasta sauce?
The vodka acts as an emulsifier to keep the cream and tomatoes combined while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
How long should the sauce simmer?
Simmer the sauce for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors of the tomatoes, sausage, and spices to meld together.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately, then toss it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the vodka sauce?
While the sauce can be frozen, the texture of the cream might change slightly upon thawing and reheating.
What are some good side dishes for this pasta?
A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm garlic bread are excellent side dishes for this meal.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta variety and ensure your sausage is certified gluten-free.
How much salt is needed for this dish?
The recipe calls for 3/4 teaspoon of salt, but you should always taste and adjust based on your preference.
Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or fresh spinach at the end of cooking are great ways to add more nutrients.
What can I substitute for fresh parsley?
Fresh basil is a wonderful substitute, or you can use a smaller amount of dried parsley if fresh is unavailable.
Does the alcohol in the vodka cook off?
Most of the alcohol evaporates during the brief boiling process, leaving behind only the flavor characteristics.
Can I use white wine instead of vodka?
White wine will change the flavor profile to be more acidic, but it still provides a nice depth to the tomato sauce.
How do I ensure the pasta stays al dente?
Cook the pasta for the minimum time listed on the package instructions before draining and adding it to the sauce.
Should I rinse the pasta after draining?
No, do not rinse the pasta; the natural starches on the surface help the vodka sauce cling to the noodles.
Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?
Olive oil is preferred for its flavor, but any neutral cooking oil like avocado or canola oil will work.
How many people does this recipe serve?
Based on 1 lb of pasta, this recipe typically serves approximately 4 to 6 people.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about one-third the amount of dried parsley as it is more concentrated than fresh.
What if I don't have chili flakes?
You can use a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or omit them entirely for a mild version of the dish.
Can I add Parmesan cheese to this recipe?
Absolutely! Stirring in some grated Parmesan cheese at the end adds a wonderful saltiness and extra creaminess.