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 recipe quickly became a favorite in my household, perfect for weeknight dinners with its easy preparation and rich taste.
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 to 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 to 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 Our family gathers around this dish often sharing laughter and stories while enjoying the delicious flavors together.
Notes
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 a delightful twist on classic pasta dishes sure to please anyone craving bold flavors.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What pasta works best with the sauce?
Small shapes like ditalini, penne, or rigatoni work well, as they hold the creamy, spicy sauce nicely.
- → How can I adjust the heat level?
Increase or reduce red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference, or add a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
- → Is there an alcohol-free option?
Yes, simply omit the vodka; the sauce remains creamy and flavorful without the alcohol.
- → Can I substitute the cream or cheese?
You can swap heavy cream for a plant-based alternative and use vegetarian-friendly cheese to accommodate dietary needs.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
A crisp green salad and garlic bread complement the creamy, spicy flavors perfectly for a balanced meal.