Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream

Name: Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 400g pasta (penne or rigatoni); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup vodka; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Ideas

I absolutely love this Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream! It's rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying—a perfect comfort meal that I can whip up on a weeknight or serve during special occasions. The balance of flavors from the tomato, cream, and vodka gives the sauce a unique and tantalizing taste that makes every bite delightful. I treasure how the vibrant color brightens up my dinner table and my family's faces. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll keep coming back for more!

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-07T12:57:34.914Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how simple the process was but how incredibly complex the flavors turned out. The vodka actually helps to lift the tomato flavors and brings a pleasant warmth, making it stand out from regular pasta sauces. I usually let the sauce simmer to allow the ingredients to meld perfectly together, which is key to achieving that silky texture.

This recipe has quickly become a staple in my home. I love how the cream adds a luscious richness that coats the pasta beautifully. Tip: Use high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor and don’t skip the fresh basil at the end; it brings a burst of freshness that ties everything together.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce with a hint of tanginess
Quick to make but tastes gourmet
Perfect for any pasta lover or special occasions

The Power of Vodka in Cooking

Vodka isn't just for drinking; in this recipe, it plays a crucial role in elevating the sauce's depth and flavor. It helps to release the flavors from the tomatoes and enhances the overall profile of the dish. When you add vodka, let it simmer for 10 minutes as this allows the alcohol to cook off, leaving behind only the beautiful essence that complements the cream and tomatoes perfectly.

I recommend using a mid-range vodka for this recipe, as the flavor will come through in the sauce. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, you can substitute the vodka with extra chicken or vegetable broth, but be aware it won’t provide the same complex flavor profile.

Tips for the Perfect Rose Sauce

To achieve the ideal texture in your rose sauce, monitoring the cream's incorporation is vital. Stir the heavy cream in on low heat so it warms gently rather than boiling. Boiling can cause the cream to curdle, ruining the sauce's silky mouthfeel. A gentle simmer will ensure that the sauce thickens beautifully without compromising its creaminess.

Another key is to adjust the pasta-to-sauce ratio. When you add the drained pasta to the sauce, you want just enough sauce to coat the pasta perfectly. If you find the sauce too thick, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water helps create a glossy finish that clings well to the pasta, enhancing each delightful bite.

Serving and Storing Tips

For a delightful serving suggestion, consider adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese atop the pasta just before serving. The saltiness and rich flavor of the cheese harmonize beautifully with the creamy tomato sauce and elevate the dish to new heights. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a subtle spice for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help regain the sauce's creamy consistency. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to let it cool before placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to two months.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Rose Sauce Pasta:

Ingredients

400g pasta (penne or rigatoni)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup vodka
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Rose Sauce Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Vodka

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vodka, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the alcohol evaporate.

Incorporate Cream

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Serve

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when simmering the sauce. It enhances the flavor profile without overwhelming the dish.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of pasta is important in this dish; I suggest using penne or rigatoni because their tubular shapes hold onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Opt for high-quality pasta to avoid mushiness when combined with the sauce, and for an even richer experience, try using whole wheat or gluten-free options if needed.

Crushed tomatoes are the star of the sauce; using San Marzano tomatoes can radically enhance flavor, as they are sweeter and less acidic. If you're fresh out of canned tomatoes, you can use diced tomatoes as well, but remember to blend them for a smoother sauce if that's your preference.

Common Troubleshooting

If your sauce turns out too thick, don’t fret! Simply pour in a bit more heavy cream or the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. If, on the other hand, it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce down and thicken. Stir it occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the skillet.

An overly acidic tomato sauce can overpower the dish. If you notice this occurrence, a splash of honey or a pinch of sugar can balance it out. Likewise, season progressively—tasting and adjusting as you go will provide the best results and guarantee a sauce that’s just right for your palate.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your rose sauce by adding in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an added layer of flavor and nutrition. These ingredients would complement the existing flavors while contributing to the dish's overall texture. You could also experiment with proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal.

For a different twist, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of nutmeg at the end of cooking. Both elements can brighten the dish, creating an unexpected yet delightful twist that gives your rose sauce pasta a unique flair. Don’t shy away from experimenting to discover your perfect version!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work well, such as spaghetti or fettuccine.

→ Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for vodka?

You can use a splash of extra broth or water for a similar effect, but the vodka does enhance the flavor profile.

→ Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made a few days in advance and reheated when ready to serve. Just add a little cream when reheating to maintain creaminess.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure the pasta you choose is egg-free for a fully vegan option.