Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsWoodfire RockfordVodka Rigatoni Recipe

Vodka Rigatoni Recipe

Inspired by Woodfire Rockford
Time1h
Serves4

House-made ragatoni, vodka sauce, & grana padano.

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Method

Pasta Preparation

  1. 1

    Make the Pasta Dough

    In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs. Gradually mix the flour into the eggs until a dough forms.

  2. 2

    Knead the Dough

    Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

  3. 3

    Roll and Cut the Pasta

    After resting, divide the dough into four portions. Roll each portion into thin sheets using a pasta machine or rolling pin. Cut into rigatoni shapes using a pasta cutter or knife.

Vodka Sauce Preparation

  1. 4

    Sauté Aromatics

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and heat until shimmering. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  2. 5

    Add Tomatoes and Vodka

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vodka. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.

  3. 6

    Incorporate Cream and Seasonings

    Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

  4. 7

    Add Cheese and Basil

    Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the grated Grana Padano cheese and chopped basil until melted and well combined.

Combining and Serving

  1. 8

    Cook the Rigatoni

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the homemade rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and reserve some pasta water.

  2. 9

    Combine Pasta with Sauce

    Add the cooked rigatoni to the vodka sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

  3. 10

    Serve

    Plate the vodka rigatoni and garnish with additional Grana Padano cheese and fresh basil. Enjoy!

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