This Pesto Vodka Sauce Pasta is creamy and flavorful, combining the best of both sauces. With fresh basil and a little kick from vodka, it’s a taste treat!
Cooking this dish makes me feel like a fancy chef, but it’s super easy. I love serving it with a sprinkle of parmesan and some garlic bread. Simple and delicious! 🥖🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: I love penne because its shape holds onto the sauce perfectly. However, if you’re in the mood for a change, try fusilli or farfalle. Both work well with creamy sauces!
Vodka: The vodka adds a unique richness to the sauce. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with vegetable broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto is convenient, but homemade is so fresh if you have the time. If you’re allergic to nuts, many brands offer nut-free options, or you can make your own using sunflower seeds instead of pine nuts.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut cream. Just be aware it may add a slight coconut flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: Besides parmesan, Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are also great alternatives for that cheesy flavor. For a vegan option, look for plant-based parmesan substitutes.
How Do You Create a Velvety Smooth Sauce?
To achieve that creamy, luxurious texture, follow these tips:
- After cooking the garlic, let the vodka reduce for a couple of minutes. This step is crucial to evaporate the alcohol and soften the flavors of the sauce.
- When you add the heavy cream, lower the heat to medium-low to prevent it from boiling. This helps keep your sauce smooth.
- Stir the cream in slowly, ensuring it melds with the crushed tomatoes before adding the pesto. This layering gives the best flavor.
Don’t forget to stir in your cheese until it melts evenly—this creates that well-loved creaminess in pasta! Enjoy making your own delightful sauce!
Pesto Vodka Sauce Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Pesto Vodka Sauce Pasta takes about 20 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s quick and easy, making dinner a breeze without sacrificing flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Adding the Vodka:
Once the garlic is ready, carefully pour in the vodka. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This helps reduce the vodka slightly and evaporates the alcohol, leaving behind the flavor.
4. Creating the Tomato Base:
Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes and let the mixture cook for about 5-7 minutes. This step thickens the sauce while the flavors meld together nicely.
5. Making it Creamy:
Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly incorporate the heavy cream into the sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy, which should take just a minute or so!
6. Mixing in the Pesto:
Add the prepared basil pesto to the sauce. Stir thoroughly to combine everything well, and season to taste with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Feel free to adjust based on your preference!
7. Combining Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce. Toss gently to ensure that the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
8. Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and well incorporated into the sauce, adding that delicious cheesiness we love!
9. Garnishing:
To finish up, garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for that perfect touch.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pasta immediately while it’s hot and creamy. Enjoy this delicious Pesto Vodka Sauce Pasta with a side of crusty garlic bread for a complete meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Use vegan pesto and nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese for the Parmesan to keep the flavors intact.
Is the Vodka Necessary for the Recipe?
While vodka adds a distinct flavor, you can skip it if you prefer. Instead, substitute it with vegetable broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity. The sauce will still be delicious without the vodka!
