Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream

Name: Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (such as penne or fusilli); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes; 100ml vodka; 200ml heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

I absolutely adore this Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream! Every time I make this recipe, the rich flavors of tomato and cream intermingle beautifully, resulting in a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. It's a comforting dish that makes any mundane weeknight feel like a special occasion. Over the years, I've fine-tuned the balance between the vibrant tomato and the creamy elements, creating a harmony that my friends and family can’t get enough of. This dish is always a hit at gatherings, and I love serving it with a sprinkle of fresh basil.

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:27:38.454Z

I remember the first time I tried making Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream. The dish was a revelation, and I knew I had to recreate it in my own kitchen. I experimented with different ratios of ingredients and found just the right combination. The key lies in letting the vodka simmer long enough to mellow its sharpness while enhancing the overall flavor.

Every time I serve this dish, it sparks conversations and admiration. I love watching the satisfaction on my guests' faces as they take their first bite, and I always remind them that a touch of good quality parmesan cheese at the end takes the meal to another level! Remember, using fresh ingredients makes all the difference.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The creamy vodka sauce adds a rich depth to the dish.
A perfect blend of tomatoes and cream creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Great for impressing guests at dinner parties without being overly complex.

      

Perfecting the Rose Sauce

The balance between the tomato and cream is crucial for achieving that signature rose color and flavor. When combining the crushed tomatoes with vodka, allow the sauce to simmer long enough—approximately 10 minutes—to remove the alcohol's sharpness and intensify the flavors. Stir occasionally and watch as it thickens, transforming into a harmonious blend ready for the addition of cream.

Incorporating the heavy cream should be done gradually. Lower the heat to prevent the cream from curdling, and add it slowly while stirring. This technique not only ensures a smooth texture but also allows you to gauge the sauce's richness before serving. Taste as you go; a pinch more salt can often elevate the dish and enhance the creaminess.

Choosing the Right Pasta

While this recipe works beautifully with penne or fusilli, the right pasta shape can elevate your dish. Pasta that scoops up the sauce, like rigatoni or farfalle, will create delightful pockets of flavor. Ensure you don’t overcook it—remove the pasta just as it reaches 'al dente,' meaning it should have a slight bite, allowing it to absorb the sauce more effectively.

If you're planning on making this dish gluten-free, opt for gluten-free pasta varieties that closely mimic traditional options. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta may require a shorter or longer time in boiling water depending on the brand.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious pasta.

Ingredients

300g pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
100ml vodka
200ml heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure all ingredients are prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream.

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté Aromatics

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

Add Tomatoes and Vodka

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vodka. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the sauce to thicken.

Incorporate Cream

Reduce the heat and slowly add the heavy cream, stirring until it's well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve the desired consistency.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your delicious Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half-and-half or a blend of milk and sour cream for the heavy cream. This will reduce the richness while still maintaining a creamy consistency. However, be cautious with cooking temperatures as lower-fat dairy can sometimes curdle if heated too quickly.

For a vegan version, try using coconut cream or cashew cream as an alternative to heavy cream, and ensure you select a vodka suitable for vegan diets. You can also use a plant-based pasta for a fully vegan experience, creating a dish that caters to various dietary needs.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This rose sauce pasta can be made ahead of time, perfect for busy weeknights. Cook the pasta and sauce separately, and combine them just before serving. The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days; just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

If you want to enjoy this dish later, consider freezing the sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on a low flame, adding fresh pasta only once the sauce is hot to ensure optimal texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, any pasta that can hold sauce well, like farfalle or rigatoni, works great!

→ Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for vodka?

You can use a bit of lemon juice or chicken broth to replace the vodka for a lighter sauce.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply ensure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and it will be perfectly vegetarian.

→ Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the sauce in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.