Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream

Name: Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g pasta (penne or rigatoni); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 400g canned diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup vodka; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Hearty Collection

I absolutely love making Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream because it combines the richness of creamy tomato sauce with a hint of spice. This dish has a beautiful pink hue that not only pleases the eye but also delights the palate. The balance of flavors, enhanced by the vodka, brings a new level of depth to traditional pasta dishes. It's perfect for cozy dinners or serving to guests, making it a versatile option for any occasion. I can't wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Hester Lockwood

Last updated on 2026-01-07T13:09:34.913Z

When I first tried Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream at a little Italian bistro, I knew I had to recreate it at home. The tangy tomato flavor combined with the silky cream was something I had never tasted before. I experimented with different proportions of cream and tomato until I found the perfect balance.

This dish works beautifully because the vodka helps to enhance the flavors of the sauce, adding a unique depth that traditional sauces often lack. I also found that a splash of crushed red pepper gives it a lovely kick, making it even more enjoyable!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy tomato sauce with a unique kick from vodka
Beautiful pink color that impresses guests
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

The Importance of Ingredients

The quality of your canned diced tomatoes significantly impacts the flavor of the sauce. I recommend using San Marzano tomatoes for their rich, sweet flavor, which complements the sauce's creaminess beautifully. Look for varieties packed in juice instead of puree for a more authentic texture. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, a mix of Roma and heirloom varieties, peeled and chopped, can work well, too, though you’ll need to cook them longer to break down properly.

Vodka plays a crucial role in elevating the flavors of this dish. It helps to dissolve the fats in the cream and tomatoes, which allows the sauce to maintain a smooth texture and enhances the overall richness. If you're avoiding alcohol, you can substitute vodka with vegetable broth or simply leave it out, but the dish may lose some depth. In this case, consider adding a splash of lemon juice for a touch of acidity.

Perfecting the Sauce

When sautéing the onions and garlic, be cautious not to let them brown, as burnt aromatics can introduce bitterness to your sauce. Aim for the onions to be translucent and soft, usually around 4-5 minutes over medium heat. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the dish, ensuring that every bite is infused with the sweetness of the onions and the fragrance of the garlic.

As you simmer the sauce, keep an eye on the consistency. You want a sauce that clings to the pasta without being too runny. If it seems too thick, add a small splash of pasta water to loosen it up. This starchy water not only adjusts the texture but also adheres to the pasta more effectively, helping to thicken the sauce and enhance its creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for the perfect Rose Sauce Pasta:

Ingredients

400g pasta (penne or rigatoni)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
400g canned diced tomatoes
1/2 cup vodka
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish
Parmesan cheese for serving

Now that you have everything, let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Rose Sauce Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Prepare the Sauce

Pour in the diced tomatoes and vodka. Simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and red pepper flakes, then season with salt and pepper.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Rose Sauce Pasta!

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pasta will continue to absorb the sauce, so it may become drier; simply add a splash of cream or water when reheating to restore its moisture. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for up to two months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

When reheating, aim for a low and slow approach to avoid separating the cream. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming. If using a microwave, stir halfway through the heating time for consistent temperature distribution. Keeping the dish gently warm not only preserves the creamy texture but also enhances the flavors as they meld together again.

Serving Suggestions

This Rose Sauce Pasta is a beautiful centerpiece for any dinner table, but I love to serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, cutting through the creamy sauce with its peppery notes. Feel free to add some cherry tomatoes or avocado for extra flavor and freshness.

For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp on top of the pasta. Both options not only complement the creamy sauce but also add protein, making it a complete dish. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, toss in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach, which will blend nicely with the flavors and textures of the sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne and rigatoni work great, feel free to use any pasta you prefer.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option or use a cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply toss it with the cooked pasta when ready to serve.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or even add some diced fresh chili to the sauce.