Spicy Vodka Sauce Ditalini

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

I first tried this spicy vodka sauce ditalini on a chilly evening and instantly loved the rich and satisfying flavors it brought to my dinner table

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

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This dish always brings the family together with its rich flavors and comforting feel perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions

Notes

For extra heat add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread

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

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This spicy vodka sauce ditalini is a quick flavorful meal that impresses every time

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use other pasta shapes instead of ditalini?

Yes, penne or rigatoni make excellent alternatives that hold the sauce well.

→ How can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes to lower the heat without altering the overall flavor.

→ Is vodka necessary in the sauce?

Vodka adds depth, but you can omit it; the sauce remains creamy and flavorful.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Gently warm on the stove adding a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed.

→ Can I substitute dairy ingredients for a vegan option?

Try plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan alternatives to keep similar texture and flavor.