Save to Pinterest 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 recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household for its perfect balance of spice and creaminess.
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.
Save to Pinterest My family loves gathering around the table for this dish especially on cozy weekend dinners.
Notes
Substitute penne or rigatoni for ditalini if desired. 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.
Save to Pinterest This recipe delivers rich flavors quickly without complex techniques making it ideal for weeknight meals.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ditalini with other pasta shapes?
Yes, penne or rigatoni work well and hold the sauce nicely, offering similar texture and bite.
- → How can I adjust the spiciness level?
Modify the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to suit your preferred heat intensity.
- → Is it necessary to use vodka in the sauce?
Vodka adds depth and helps meld flavors, but you can omit it for an alcohol-free version without sacrificing creaminess.
- → What is the best way to achieve a smooth sauce consistency?
Reserve some pasta cooking water and gradually add it while tossing pasta to adjust the sauce's thickness.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but for best texture, reheat gently and add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.