Spicy Vodka Pasta

This quick and easy Spicy Vodka Pasta, also known as Pasta alla Vodka, is creamy, flavorful, and ready in 25 minutes! Inspired by the viral Gigi Hadid vodka pasta recipe, my version packs a punch and is guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite.

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Keyword Pasta Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings people

Calories 725kcal

Author Darcey Olson

Cost $7

Ingredients

3 Tbsp unsalted butter *Note 1
2 Tbsp minced shallots
2 cloves garlic, minced
6 oz tomato paste
½-1 tsp red pepper flakes *Note 2
2 oz vodka *Note 3
½ cup heavy cream
⅛ tsp kosher salt
16 oz rigatoni, penne, or rotini
½ cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
optional garnish: fresh basil

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta to al dente (reference the back of the pasta package for exact cook time). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water then drain the pasta.
While the pasta is boiling, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened.
Add tomato paste and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring frequently, until paste has started to darken, about 4-5 minutes.
Add vodka and cook, stirring frequently, for 1-2 minutes, or until the vodka smell dissipates.
Add the cream, 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water, and salt, and stir to combine.
Add half the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
Add the cooked pasta to the vodka sauce and toss to evenly coat. Add reserved pasta sauce, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed. Taste and add extra salt, if desired.
Serve in individual bowls and top with fresh basil and shredded parmesan cheese.

Notes

Note 1 - If you prefer, swap in equal parts extra virgin olive oil.

Note 2 - Adding a full tsp. adds a healthy amount of heat. If you want a little heat, or aren't sure of the level you need, start with 1/2 tsp. and work up from there.

Note 3 - If you want a vodka-less version, swap in equal parts chicken broth.

Nutrition