Vodka sauce pasta is a classic Italian-American dish that’s creamy, tangy, and deeply satisfying. By using a slow cooker, you can infuse the sauce with rich flavors while making the preparation incredibly easy. This recipe features penne pasta smothered in a luscious vodka-infused tomato sauce, enriched with cream and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta: The ridged surface of penne holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly, but you can substitute with your favorite pasta shape if desired.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet and aromatic base for the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a deep, savory flavor that complements the tomatoes and cream.
- 1 cup vodka: The vodka enhances the flavors of the tomatoes and creates a smooth, well-rounded sauce. The alcohol cooks off, leaving just the taste behind.
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes: These tomatoes create the rich base of the sauce. Choose high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess to the sauce, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and the sharpness of the vodka.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of warmth and spice to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses the sauce with a slightly bitter, earthy flavor that pairs well with the tomatoes and cream.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, aromatic note to the sauce, making it more fragrant.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the richness of the sauce.
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Deglaze with Vodka:
- Carefully pour in the vodka, stirring to deglaze the pan. Allow the vodka to simmer and reduce by half, which should take about 5 minutes. This step cooks off the alcohol, leaving behind the rich flavor.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker:
- Pour the vodka-onion-garlic mixture into your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Slow Cook the Sauce:
- Set your slow cooker to low and cook the sauce for 4-6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a deep, rich sauce. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 2-3 hours.
- Cook the Pasta:
- About 20 minutes before the sauce is done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Once the sauce is done cooking, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little pasta water or more cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the slow cooker and stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Let it sit for a few minutes so the pasta can absorb some of the sauce.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- Protein Additions: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage to the sauce before serving.
- Vegetarian Version: This dish is naturally vegetarian, but you can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
This slow cooker vodka sauce pasta is the perfect dish for a cozy night in. The combination of rich tomato sauce, cream, and a hint of vodka makes for a comforting and indulgent meal. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality pasta dish with minimal effort. Serve it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.
