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 for weeknight dinners due to its simplicity 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 34 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 68 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 This dish always brings everyone together at the dinner table creating warm family memories.
Notes
For extra heat add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
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 spicy vodka sauce ditalini is sure to become your new comfort food favorite.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute ditalini pasta with another type?
Yes, short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni work well as alternatives, holding the sauce nicely.
- → How can I adjust the spiciness level?
Modify the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred heat, or add a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
- → Is it possible to prepare this without alcohol?
Omitting vodka is fine; the sauce will remain flavorful, though slightly less complex.
- → What’s the best way to achieve a creamy sauce consistency?
Adding reserved pasta water gradually helps to loosen the sauce to a smooth, silky finish without thinning out flavors.
- → How should fresh basil be used in this dish?
Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the finished dish to add a fragrant, herbal note and bright color.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
This version is already vegetarian-friendly, but ensure Parmesan cheese complies with your dietary preferences.