Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 18 creamy vodka sauce recipes that put a twist on the classic! From penne alla vodka to lobster ravioli, and from meatball subs to stuffed shells, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, cheesy, or just plain indulgent, our collection of vodka sauce recipes has got the perfect dish for you.
Classic vodka sauce gets a makeover with fresh basil and mozzarella cheese, while Spicy Vodka Sauce takes things up a notch with Calabrian chilies. Meanwhile, pizza lovers will go wild for Vodka Sauce Pizza with prosciutto and mozzarella. And don’t even get us started on the luxurious Lobster Ravioli in Vodka Cream Sauce…
Classic Penne alla Vodka with Fresh Basil
This Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the creaminess of vodka sauce with the brightness of fresh basil, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup vodka-infused tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in vodka-infused tomato sauce and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Stir in chopped fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Vodka Sauce with Calabrian Chilies
Add a spicy kick to your pasta dishes with this bold and flavorful sauce. Made with vodka, garlic, and the heat of Calabrian chilies, it’s perfect for those who like a little excitement in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Calabrian chilies, seeded and chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vodka, garlic, and Calabrian chilies. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in heavy cream and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vodka Sauce Pizza with Mozzarella and Prosciutto
Elevate your pizza game with this creamy and savory combination of vodka sauce, mozzarella cheese, and crispy prosciutto. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or a party-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup vodka sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread vodka sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
5. Arrange prosciutto slices on top of the cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lobster Ravioli in Vodka Cream Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of lobster and vodka cream sauce wrapped in homemade ravioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fresh or frozen lobster meat (about 8 oz)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt, for seasoning
– Vodka Cream Sauce (recipe below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Vodka Cream Sauce:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, and salt.
3. Knead dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to desired thickness.
5. Cut into squares or shapes of your choice.
6. Place lobster meat in center of each square.
7. Fold pasta over filling, pressing edges to seal.
8. Cook ravioli in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes.
9. Drain and serve with Vodka Cream Sauce.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 20 minutes
– Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Vodka Sauce Pasta Bake with Three Cheeses
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying casserole, featuring a velvety vodka sauce, al dente pasta, and a blend of creamy cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta (e.g., penne or rigatoni)
– 1 cup vodka sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine vodka sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese. Mix well.
4. Add cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Dot the top with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Shrimp Linguine in Vodka Sauce
A classic Italian-American dish gets a bold twist with the addition of garlic and vodka-infused sauce, served with succulent shrimp and linguine pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup linguine pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add vodka and cook until reduced by half, about 2 minutes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Combine cooked linguine with the sauce and shrimp. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vodka Sauce Meatball Sub
A flavorful twist on classic meatball subs, this recipe combines tender beef meatballs with a rich vodka-infused tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup vodka sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 sub rolls
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Split sub rolls and toast lightly.
5. Assemble subs by placing meatballs on the rolls, spooning vodka sauce over them, and topping with mozzarella cheese. Serve immediately.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Vodka Sauce Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of vodka sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove skin, seeds, and membranes from the peppers. Chop into pieces.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine vodka, heavy cream, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add roasted red pepper pieces to the sauce and stir to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
7. Combine cooked pasta and vodka-red pepper sauce. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vodka Sauce Stuffed Shells with Ricotta
Vodka Sauce Stuffed Shells with Ricotta: A creamy and flavorful twist on classic stuffed shells!
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup vodka sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, vodka sauce, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour remaining vodka sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vodka Sauce Gnocchi with Pancetta
This recipe combines the tender goodness of homemade gnocchi with the bold flavors of vodka sauce and crispy pancetta. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vodka sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the pancetta from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the vodka sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat in the vodka sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vodka Sauce Lasagna Rolls
Vodka Sauce Lasagna Rolls Recipe
A creative twist on traditional lasagna, these vodka sauce lasagna rolls are a unique and delicious meal option.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup vodka sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine vodka sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
4. Add the beaten egg to the cheese mixture and stir until combined.
5. Place a cooked lasagna noodle on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture onto the noodle, leaving a 1-inch border at one end.
6. Roll the noodle into a tight cylinder and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with remaining noodles and cheese mixture.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the rolls and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vodka Sauce Chicken Parmesan
This classic Italian-American dish gets a creamy twist with the addition of vodka-infused sauce. Satisfy your cravings with this easy-to-make recipe that combines juicy chicken, crispy breading, and rich vodka sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup vodka sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare chicken by dipping each breast in beaten egg, then coating with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
3. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle vodka sauce over the chicken breasts.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each breast.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vodka Sauce Risotto with Peas
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of risotto with the brightness of peas, all wrapped up in a velvety vodka sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup vodka (yes, you read that right – vodka!)
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth, stirring constantly. Repeat this process until all broth is used, about 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
6. Stir in the vodka sauce (see note), then add the frozen peas and cook until thawed.
7. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Note: Vodka sauce can be made by combining 1/2 cup vodka, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon tomato paste. Heat the mixture over low heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
Vodka Sauce Carbonara with Crispy Pancetta
Vodka Sauce Carbonara with Crispy Pancetta: A Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
This creamy, savory pasta dish combines the richness of vodka sauce, the crunch of crispy pancetta, and the simplicity of homemade carbonara. It’s a perfect blend of flavors for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz pancetta or bacon, thinly sliced
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup vodka sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Meanwhile, cook pancetta in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and butter until smooth. Add vodka sauce and whisk until well combined.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti and add to the bowl with egg mixture. Toss to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated.
5. Add grated Parmesan cheese and toss again to combine.
6. Serve immediately, topped with crispy pancetta and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vodka Sauce Flatbread with Arugula
Vodka Sauce Flatbread with Arugula Recipe: A flavorful twist on traditional flatbread, this recipe combines the creamy richness of vodka sauce with the peppery freshness of arugula.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of flatbread dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup vodka sauce
– 4 oz fresh arugula
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the flatbread dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread the vodka sauce evenly over the flatbread, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Top with arugula leaves and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vodka Sauce Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of vodka sauce, creating a rich and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups vodka sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in vodka sauce, bringing mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with vodka sauce mixture. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vodka Sauce Tortellini with Spinach
A creamy vodka sauce elevates this classic Italian dish to a new level, paired with fresh spinach and tender tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) vodka-infused sauce (see below)
– 1 package fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Vodka-Infused Sauce:
– 1/2 cup (125ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vodka
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook tortellini according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in vodka-infused sauce and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to coat with the vodka sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta cooking water.
6. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vodka Sauce Bruschetta with Burrata
Elevate your bruschetta game with this creamy and savory combination of vodka sauce, fresh burrata cheese, and crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 1/2 cup vodka sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of vodka sauce on each toasted baguette slice.
4. Cut the burrata cheese into small pieces and place on top of the vodka sauce.
5. Sprinkle with parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drizzle with olive oil before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Elevate your pasta game with these 18 creamy vodka sauce recipes that add a twist to the classic. From classic penne alla vodka with fresh basil to lobster ravioli in vodka cream sauce, and even vodka sauce mac and cheese, there’s something for everyone. Spice up your meals with spicy vodka sauce with Calabrian chilies or try it on pizza with mozzarella and prosciutto. Get creative with roasted red pepper vodka sauce pasta or stuffed shells with ricotta. Whether you’re in the mood for meatballs, shrimp, or lasagna rolls, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
