Easy Vodka Sauce is a classic Italian-American pasta sauce known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. Made with simple ingredients like tomatoes, cream, vodka, and herbs, this sauce is incredibly easy to prepare and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Serve it over your favorite pasta for a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients for Easy Vodka Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How to Make Easy Vodka Sauce:
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Deglaze with Vodka: Add the vodka to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
- Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve: Serve the vodka sauce over cooked pasta, such as penne or spaghetti. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Vodka: Vodka is used in this sauce to enhance the flavors of the tomatoes and cream. It adds a subtle depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes form the base of this sauce, providing a rich and flavorful tomato taste. Look for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best results.
- Cream: Heavy cream adds a luxurious and creamy texture to the sauce, balancing out the acidity of the tomatoes and adding richness.
- Herbs: Dried basil and oregano add classic Italian flavors to the sauce. You can also use fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
Easy Vodka Sauce is a simple yet flavorful sauce that is sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve it with your favorite pasta and enjoy a delicious and comforting meal in no time!
