Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsRed Rock TavernPasta With Vodka Sauce Recipe

Pasta With Vodka Sauce Recipe

Inspired by Red Rock Tavern
Time30m
Serves4

Make Pasta With Vodka Sauce Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water.

  2. 2

    Cook Pasta

    Add 12 oz of pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

  3. 3

    Drain Pasta

    Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Making Vodka Sauce

  1. 4

    Sauté Aromatics

    In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 minced shallot and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

  2. 5

    Add Tomato Paste

    Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the paste to caramelize slightly.

  3. 6

    Deglaze with Vodka

    Pour in 1 cup of vodka, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the vodka to simmer and reduce for about 5 minutes.

  4. 7

    Incorporate Cream

    Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

  5. 8

    Add Cheese and Season

    Add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and mix until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  6. 9

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the vodka sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated, adding reserved pasta water as necessary to loosen the sauce.

  7. 10

    Finish with Basil

    Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of chopped fresh basil. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

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