Description
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon vodka (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni work best)
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
- Make the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shallots and cook until softened (about 3 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste and Spice: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until darkened. Add red pepper flakes.
- Deglaze with Vodka (Optional): Pour in vodka and stir until it evaporates, about 30 seconds.
- Incorporate Cream and Pasta Water: Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, and add pasta water until the sauce reaches desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine with Pasta: Add drained pasta, tossing to coat evenly. Stir in Parmesan cheese and butter until melted.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta and garnish with more Parmesan and fresh basil. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
- Alcohol-Free Version: Skip the vodka without a major flavor difference.
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or pancetta for a heartier meal.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan.
- Extra Veggies: Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Spicy vodka pasta, creamy pasta, Gigi Hadid pasta, easy pasta recipe, tomato cream sauce pasta