Description
A classic Italian-American dish featuring tender rigatoni pasta coated in a rich, creamy tomato sauce infused with vodka. This Rigatoni Vodka Sauce recipe is a crowd-pleaser, known for its simple preparation and decadent flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this creamy rigatoni vodka recipe delivers a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Stir in the vodka and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate slightly.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the fresh basil just before serving. This Rigatoni Vodka Sauce is best served immediately.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- You can substitute penne pasta for rigatoni if preferred.
- Ensure the vodka has a chance to cook off slightly to mellow its flavor.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and basil for a beautiful presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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