Spicy Vodka Pasta

Are you ready to take your pasta game to the next level? If you’re a fan of bold flavors and a little kick in your meals, then this Homemade Spicy Vodka Pasta recipe is just what you need. This classic Italian dish gets a fiery twist with the addition of spicy red pepper flakes and a splash of vodka for that extra depth of flavor.

Ingredients For Spicy Vodka Pasta

Here’s a delicious and easy recipe for Spicy Vodka Pasta, inspired by the viral Gigi Hadid pasta. This dish is creamy, flavorful, and can be made in under 30 minutes!

Uncooked Pasta Noodles 1 Pound 

Use penne, rigatoni, or fusilli for the best texture. These sturdy, ridged, or tubular shapes hold the spicy vodka sauce well, ensuring each bite is coated with rich, flavorful goodness.

Olive Oil 3 Tablespoons

Use extra virgin olive oil for a rich, smooth base. It enhances flavors by sautéing garlic, onions, and red pepper flakes, helping to infuse the spicy vodka sauce with depth and aroma.

White Onion 1 Cup

Use finely chopped white onion for a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It forms the aromatic base of the sauce, enhancing depth while blending smoothly with garlic, tomatoes, and spices for a balanced taste.

Garlic 6 Cloves

Use minced fresh garlic for a bold, aromatic flavor. It enhances the sauce’s depth, infusing it with a rich, savory taste that pairs perfectly with the spicy kick of red pepper flakes.

Red Pepper Flakes 1 Tablespoon

Adds a spicy kick to the sauce, balancing the richness of the cream and vodka. Use sparingly for mild heat or generously for a fiery, bold flavor.

Italian Seasoning 2 Teaspoons

 A fragrant blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. It enhances the sauce with a savory, aromatic depth, complementing the creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors.

Granulated Sugar 1 Teaspoon

Balances the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a smoother, well-rounded sauce. A small amount enhances the natural sweetness, preventing the dish from tasting too tangy or overpowering.

Kosher Salt  1 Teaspoon

Enhances the overall flavor by bringing out the richness of the sauce. Its coarse texture dissolves evenly, ensuring a well-balanced taste without overpowering the spicy and creamy elements.

Tomato Paste 6 Ounces

Provides a rich, concentrated tomato flavor with a deep umami taste. It thickens the sauce, enhancing its texture while adding a slightly sweet and tangy depth to the dish.

Vodka 3 Ounces

Enhances the sauce’s depth by unlocking flavors in the tomatoes that water or broth can’t. It creates a smooth, rich texture while balancing acidity without leaving a strong alcoholic taste.

Plant-Based Heavy Cream 1 ¼ Cup

Plant-Based Heavy Cream adds a rich, creamy texture without dairy, making the sauce smooth and luscious. It balances the spice and acidity, creating a velvety consistency while keeping the dish vegan-friendly.

Vegan Parmesan  ¾ Cup

Adds a savory, cheesy depth with a nutty, umami-rich flavor. It enhances the sauce’s creaminess and provides a dairy-free alternative while complementing the spice and tangy tomato base.

Vegan Butter 2 Tablespoons

Adds a rich, creamy texture and enhances the sauce’s depth with a smooth, buttery finish. It balances the spice and acidity while keeping the dish entirely plant-based.

Basil 2 tbsp

Adds a fresh, aromatic touch with a slightly sweet and peppery flavor. It brightens the sauce, balancing the richness and spice while enhancing the overall depth of the dish.

How to Make Spicy Vodka Pasta?

1. Cook the pasta in boiling water according to the directions until it is al dente. Before draining the pasta, set aside 1 cup of the water. After removing the water, put it aside.
2. Place a large sauté pan over medium-low heat and add the olive oil. Heat the oil and add the garlic and onion. Next, add the salt, sugar, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Turn frequently until the onion is transparent, which should take 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Place the tomato paste in the center of the pan, with the garlic and onions on one side. Cook, rotating frequently, until the tomato paste turns dark crimson and begins to caramelize, about 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Add the tomato paste, garlic, and onions to a bowl with the vodka. Cook until the vodka is gone, 1 to 2 minutes.
5. With a whisk, stir in the heavy cream. For three to five minutes, simmer.
6. Add the butter, parmesan, and ½ cup of the pasta water you saved. Mix the sauce thoroughly until it becomes rich and silky and the butter and parmesan melt. 
7. Add a tablespoon or two of the pasta water at a time until the sauce reaches the desired consistency if it seems too thick. Only ½ cup of the pasta water I saved is used by me.
8. Add the cooked pasta and stir to combine. Verify the spices and adjust as necessary. Enjoy immediately after adding the fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes!

Best Pasta Types For Vodka Sauce

The best pasta types for vodka sauce are those that hold the creamy, tomato-based sauce well. 

• Rigatoni – Ridged tubes that hold sauce well.
• Penne – Hollow shape captures creamy sauce.
• Fusilli – Twists grip every drop of sauce.
• Fettuccine – Flat, silky noodles blend smoothly.
• Shells – Perfect for cradling rich sauce.

Dairy-Free Alternatives For Creamy Vodka Sauce

For a dairy-free creamy vodka sauce:

• Plant-Based Heavy Cream – Rich, smooth, and dairy-free.
• Coconut Milk – Adds creaminess with a subtle sweetness.
• Cashew Cream – Blends into a silky, nutty sauce.
• Oat Milk – Mild flavor, perfect for a light texture.
• Almond Milk – Subtle, slightly nutty, and creamy.

Final Words

Try the Spicy Vodka Pasta recipe to spice up your pasta. This spicy-creamy vodka sauce meal will tantalize your taste senses. This recipe will become a favorite whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just seeking a nice supper. This Spicy Vodka Pasta dish will elevate your pasta skills and make dining unforgettable.

FAQs

What Makes Vodka Pasta Spicy?

Vodka pasta gets its spiciness from red pepper flakes or crushed chili peppers, which are typically sautéed in oil before adding the sauce. Some recipes also use hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or spicy sausage for extra heat. Adjust the spice level to taste for the perfect kick!

How To Balance Spice In Vodka Pasta?

To balance spice in vodka pasta, add heavy cream, coconut milk, or cashew cream to mellow the heat. A pinch of sugar or extra tomato sauce can also help. Stirring in butter or olive oil smooths out sharp flavors. Adjust gradually to find the perfect balance!

Can You Make Vodka Pasta Without Vodka?

Yes! You can substitute vodka with water, lemon juice, or white wine for acidity. Apple cider vinegar or chicken broth also work. The alcohol enhances flavor but isn’t essential—your sauce will still be rich and creamy without it! Adjust seasonings to maintain depth.