How to Make Vodka Sauce

Looking to elevate your pasta game? This homemade Vodka Sauce recipe is just what you need! Creamy, tangy, and with just the right kick, it's the perfect way to turn a simple dish into something special. Whether you're cooking for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds. Completely Gluten-free. Vegan + Vodka-free Option.

Pasta is hands down my go-to at home, and I love switching up the sauces—from classic tomato to creamy garlic parmesan. But ever since I learned How to Make Vodka Sauce, it’s become a favorite for everything: pasta bakes, ravioli, pizza—you name it. So, it’s about time I shared it with you all because there’s nothing more satisfying than whipping up this mouthwatering sauce from scratch!

I absolutely love sharing more 'essential + basic recipes' and mastering a classic vodka sauce is one of those must-know recipes! This sauce is incredibly easy to make and hits all the right notes—creamy, cheesy + garlicky. It's rich and full of flavor from the jammy tomatoes and the best part? You can make it with or without vodka, and even whip up a dairy-free vegan version! Perfect for those quick weeknight dinners when you want something extra delicious.

If you’re as obsessed with tomatoes as I am, you’ll want to check out my Easy Herb Tomato Salad, Herb-Roasted Tomatoes, Easy Classic Bruschetta, and Herbed Butter Tomato Pizza. They’re perfect for using up any leftover tomatoes, and I’m sure you’ll love them just as much as I do!

What Is Vodka Sauce?

Vodka sauce is a rich + creamy Italian sauce made with tomatoes, heavy cream, and a splash of vodka. The vodka helps to emulsify the sauce, creating a smooth, velvety texture that clings beautifully to pasta. It's known for its slightly tangy flavor, balanced by the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the cream. Vodka sauce is versatile and can be used on everything from classic pasta dishes to pizzas and baked casseroles.

Why You Will LOVE This Homemade Vodka Sauce

• Fresh, vibrant flavors that make any dish pop
• Rich + jammy yet creamy texture that’s oh-so-satisfying
• Perfect for pasta, soups, pizza + more
• Easy to make in big batches for future meals
• Simply delicious and better than store-bought options
• No preservatives or artificial ingredients!!

Vodka Sauce Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you'll need for Homemade Vodka Sauce—it's super easy and can be made any time of the year! Use fresh tomatoes when they're in season, or opt for canned tomatoes when they're not! Plus it can be made vegan if preferred see the FAQ section below!

SAUCE:

• Extra virgin olive oil. Feel free to use your favorite high-quality EVOO. My fave tried and trusted brand is California Olive Ranch.
• Shallots. Diced (You can sub with ½ onion diced)
• Garlic cloves. Minced.
• Canned crushed tomatoes. You can also roast tomatoes for more flavor by following my Herb roasted tomatoes recipe!
• Tomato paste. This adds another depth of tomato flavor + color.
• Vodka. Vodka helps to emulsify the sauce making everything extra creamy! (You can omit this if desired and add veggie stock instead)
• Smoked paprika. For a smoky element.
• Red pepper flakes. Feel free to use as much or as little as you prefer.
• Sea salt. to taste
• Heavy cream. I recommend organic–always! I use Organic Valley. Of course, for a dairy-free option, just use full-fat coconut cream/milk.
• Parmesan cheese. I love to freshly grate my cheese, however, you can use your favorite shredded brand---quality does matter! For a dairy-free option, So Delicious Dairy-Free or Violife cheese shreds taste great.

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS SAUCE!!

Here, I’ve curated a list of baking + cooking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite dishes, especially with this Vodka Sauce. Everything from my fave skillet, pots, wooden spoons, parchment paper, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

How To Use Homemade Vodka Sauce?

Homemade vodka sauce is such a game-changer in the kitchen! It’s super versatile and can jazz up so many dishes. Here are some of my favorite ways to use it:

• Pasta dishes --- Toss it with your favorite pasta for a creamy, flavorful dish. It pairs perfectly with penne, gnocchi, ravioli, or rigatoni.
• Pizza --- Spread it on pizza dough for a delicious homemade vodka pizza base.
• Sandwiches --- Use it as a tangy spread in sandwiches or paninis.
• Meat dishes --- Pour it over meatballs or baked chicken for extra flavor.
• Stews + soups --- Add it to stews or soups for a rich, creamy tomatoey base.
• Casseroles --- Layer it in casseroles or pasta bake for added depth and richness.

Feel free to get creative and use it in any dish where you want a boost of creamy tomato flavor!

How Can I Adjust the Thickness + Texture of the Sauce?

If your sauce ends up a bit too thick, just stir in a splash of water or vegetable broth until it’s the texture you like. On the flip side, if it’s a little too runny, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up. The sauce can be pretty chunky, therefore, feel free to use an immersion blender or high-powered blender for a much smoother texture. 

What Type of Tomatoes Are Best For This Sauce?

For the best homemade tomato sauce, Roma or plum tomatoes are your top pick. They have thicker flesh and fewer seeds, which makes for a richer, less watery sauce. However, if you’ve got other types of tomatoes, don’t worry! You can use those too—just be prepared for a slightly different texture.

Canned Tomatoes vs Fresh Tomatoes

Both canned + fresh tomatoes have their perks when it comes to making sauce. Fresh tomatoes bring a bright, just-picked flavor, and they’re perfect when they’re in season. Canned tomatoes, on the other hand, are super convenient and often have a rich, deep flavor since they’re cooked down and preserved at their peak. Fresh is always the best if you can get it, but canned tomatoes are a great backup and still make a tasty sauce!

Vodka Sauce Q + A's

More Homemade Sauces + Dressings

Check out these mouthwatering sauce/dressing recipes that your whole family will love, especially after trying the delicious Homemade Vodka Sauce recipe!

• Creamy Avocado Pesto Mayo Sauce
• The Best Homemade BBQ Sauce
• Roasted Garlic Olive Oil Dip
• Jalapeno Ranch Sauce
• Spicy Restaurant Style Salsa
• Vegan Ranch Dressing
• Creamy Chipotle Dressing

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried this Vodka Sauce recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram  and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea! I love hearing from you!

How to Make Vodka Sauce

August 13, 2024 •

By Shanika

No ratings yet

Looking to elevate your pasta game? This Vodka Sauce recipe is just what you need! Creamy, tangy, and with just the right kick, it's the perfect way to turn a simple dish into something special. Whether you're cooking for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds. Completely Gluten-free. Vegan + Vodka-free Option.

Prep Time: 5 minutes mins

Cook Time: 15 minutes mins

Total Time: 20 minutes mins

Serves: 6 cups

Units:

US Customary|Metric

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Ingredients

SAUCE:

• 2 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
• 3 shallots, diced (You can sub with ½ onion diced)
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes (You can also roast tomatoes for more flavor by following my Herb roasted tomatoes recipe!; You'll need about 1 ½-2 lbs. tomatoes)
• 6 oz. tomato paste
• ½ cup vodka (You can omit this if desired and add veggie stock instead)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• sea salt, to taste
• ¾ cup organic heavy cream
• ½ cup shaved parmesan cheese

Instructions

TO MAKE THE VODKA SAUCE:

• In a dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the olive oil until heated. Add in the diced shallots and minced garlic and sauté frequently about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and translucent. 
• Add the crushed tomatoes (or roasted tomatoes crushing them), tomato paste, smoked paprika, basil, and red pepper flakes, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil and add in the vodka (or stock if using) before reducing the heat to low (adding a lid halfway open) and allowing everything to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese and salt, stirring and continuing to allow everything to simmer until the cheese has melted and sauce is smooth.
• Continue to simmer for another minute or two before removing from heat.
• Enjoy with your favorite pasta, meat dish, sandwich, etc.
• Bon Appetit!

Tips & Tricks

• STORAGE: Any leftovers can be kept in a tightly sealed container and refrigerated for 3-4 days once the sauce has cooled enough to room temp. For longer storage---the sauce can be canned + preserved for up to 1 year or frozen for up to 3-4 months.When freezing, be sure to let the sauce cool completely before adding portions to freezer-safe bags.
• TEXTURE: The sauce can be pretty chunky, therefore, feel free to use an immersion blender or high-powered blender for a much smoother texture. 

Nutrition

Calories: 218kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 34mg | Sodium: 239mg | Potassium: 343mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1133IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 1mg

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