Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsRuffino's On The RiverVodka Tomato Cream Pasta Recipe

Vodka Tomato Cream Pasta Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Our famous vodka tomato cream tossed with pasta & your choice of protein

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil the Pasta

    In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Making the Sauce

  1. 2

    Sauté Garlic

    In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  2. 3

    Add Tomatoes and Vodka

    Pour in the 28 oz of canned crushed tomatoes and 1 cup of vodka. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.

  3. 4

    Incorporate Cream and Seasoning

    Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  4. 5

    Add Cheese and Basil

    Mix in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of chopped fresh basil until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Combining Ingredients

  1. 6

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired sauce consistency.

  2. 7

    Cook Protein (if using)

    If using protein, cook the diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu in a separate skillet until fully cooked through. Add the cooked protein to the pasta and sauce mixture and toss to combine.

Serving

  1. 8

    Serve the Dish

    Serve the vodka tomato cream pasta hot, garnished with additional fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.

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