Pin it A bold and creamy pasta dish featuring ditalini tossed in a spicy tomato-vodka sauce, finished with Parmesan and fresh basil. Perfect for those craving a comforting meal with a kick.
This dish quickly became a family favorite for its perfect balance of heat and creaminess, making weeknight dinners something to look forward to.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) ditalini pasta
- Sauce Base: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 small yellow onion finely chopped, 3 cloves garlic minced, 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste), 1 tsp dried oregano
- Tomato & Vodka: 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 60 ml (1/4 cup) vodka
- Cream & Cheese: 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream, 40 g (1/2 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for serving
- To Finish: Salt and black pepper to taste, fresh basil leaves torn for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ditalini according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) pasta water then drain pasta.
- Step 2:
- Meanwhile heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3 4 minutes until softened.
- Step 3:
- Stir in garlic red pepper flakes and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes stirring frequently.
- Step 5:
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and vodka. Simmer for 6 8 minutes stirring occasionally until slightly thickened and the alcohol has cooked off.
- Step 6:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan mixing until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Step 7:
- Add cooked ditalini to the sauce tossing to coat. If needed add reserved pasta water a bit at a time until sauce reaches desired consistency.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.
Pin it This recipe brings our family together every time with its satisfying flavors and easy preparation.
Notes
For extra heat add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Substitute penne or rigatoni for ditalini if desired. Omit vodka for an alcohol-free version the sauce will still be delicious. Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread.
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Wooden spoon Measuring cups and spoons Colander Chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains milk cream Parmesan cheese and wheat pasta May contain gluten depending on pasta brand use gluten-free pasta if needed Check cheese labels for vegetarian compliance if required
Pin it This spicy vodka sauce ditalini is the perfect blend of creamy and spicy to elevate your pasta nights.
Common Questions
- → Can I use other pasta shapes instead of ditalini?
Yes, penne or rigatoni work well as substitutes and will hold the sauce nicely.
- → How can I adjust the spiciness level?
Modify the red pepper flakes amount to your taste or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- → Is it necessary to use vodka in the sauce?
Vodka enhances flavor depth, but omitting it still results in a tasty sauce.
- → What cheese complements this dish best?
Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty richness and creamy texture to the sauce.
- → Can this be made vegetarian?
Yes, it is vegetarian-friendly but contains dairy and wheat ingredients.