Spicy Vodka Pasta Recipe (Made From Scratch In Under 30 Minutes)

This spicy vodka pasta recipe is a delicious and indulgent dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of creamy tomato sauce, a kick of vodka, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes makes this pasta rich, flavorful, and just the right amount of spicy. Plus, it’s easy to make, with just a few simple steps that will have you enjoying this mouthwatering meal in no time.

My Take on Spicy Vodka Pasta

Spicy vodka pasta has been one of my go-to comfort dishes to make for years now - especially when I’m craving something creamy with a bit of a kick.

Since the first time I made this recipe, I was blown away by how the vodka enhanced the flavors of the tomato sauce and gave it a smooth, velvety texture. Not to mention, the heat from the red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of spice, making every bite a perfect balance of flavors.

What I love most about this recipe though is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level to your liking, and the crispy panko breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch/texture that takes the dish to the next level.

It’s a meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to put together, making it perfect for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Another great thing about this recipe is that it's made almost entirely out of common everyday kitchen/pantry staples. 

Anyway, here’s what you’ll need to make it:

For The Pasta:

• 1 lb paccheri, rigatoni, or penne
• 1 ½ cup pasta water, reserved from cooking

For The Breadcrumb Topping:

• 2 tablespoon butter
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped

For The Sauce:

• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ red onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 oz tomato paste
• ¼ cup vodka
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¾ cup parmesan, divided

How to Make Spicy Vodka Pasta

Just 5 easy steps are all you'll have to follow to make this spicy vodka pasta. And what's even better than that is the fact that from start to finish they should take you no more than 25 minutes to complete.

Step One: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package directions until al-dente. Reserve 1 ½ cups of pasta water before draining the pasta, and then set the pasta aside.

Step Two: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

In a medium-sized pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the panko breadcrumbs and chopped parsley. Stir continuously until the breadcrumbs turn golden and crispy. Once done, remove from the heat and set the mixture aside.

Step Three: Cook the Sauce

In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, add the olive oil and diced red onion. Cook the onions for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

Step Four: Build the Sauce

Add the tomato paste to the skillet and fry it for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Deglaze the pan with the vodka, allowing it to simmer until it evaporates.

Then, add the heavy cream, 1 cup of the reserved pasta water, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and ½ cup of the grated parmesan. Stir everything together until the sauce is well combined and smooth.

Step Five: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can add more of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Finally, top the pasta with the crispy breadcrumbs and the remaining ¼ cup of parmesan. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Store and Reheat The Spicy Vodka Pasta

If you have any leftovers, you'll want to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, or in the microwave in one minute intervals before serving.

FAQs About This Spicy Vodka Pasta Recipe

Can I make this dish without vodka?

Yes, you can omit the vodka if you prefer, though it does add a unique depth of flavor. You can substitute it with a splash of white wine, or simply use extra pasta water.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Feel free to add some shrimp or even some sautéed mushrooms - or both - to the dish for extra protein and flavor.

My Final Thoughts

This spicy vodka pasta recipe is a staple in the Cunningham household. The combination of creamy, spicy sauce with tender pasta and crispy breadcrumbs makes it a meal that’s always a hit.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy making and eating this dish as much as we do.

As always, leave me a comment if you try it out!

More Recipes

If you’re looking for more tasty and easy recipes, I’ve got you covered.

Here are some of my favorites: 

• • Chicken Philly cheesesteak
  • Mississippi chicken
  • Mexican street corn pasta
  • Breaded chicken wings
  • Copycat Cheesecake Factory 4 cheese pasta
  • Stewed tomatoes