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Quick Spicy Vodka Pasta

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A budget-friendly, creamy, and spicy vodka pasta recipe ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy college nights or quick dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 pound (225 g) pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) marinara sauce
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) vodka
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil over high heat (about 5 minutes). Add 1/2 pound pasta and cook until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon red chili flakes and stir for 30 seconds to release their flavor.
  4. Carefully add 1/4 cup vodka to the pan. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and mellow the alcohol bite.
  5. Stir in 1 cup marinara sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
  6. Lower heat to medium-low and add 1/4 cup heavy cream. Mix well and cook for another 1-2 minutes until sauce is creamy and slightly thickened.
  7. Reserve about 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta using a colander.
  8. Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  9. Taste and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
  10. Plate the pasta, garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan if using. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not burn the garlic as it will taste bitter. Let the vodka simmer to cook off the alcohol and develop flavor. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. For vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit Parmesan or use vegan cheese. Gluten-free pasta can be used without changing the cooking method.

Nutrition

Keywords: vodka pasta, spicy pasta, quick pasta recipe, budget meal, college meal, creamy pasta, easy dinner

Find it online: https://grubella.com/quick-spicy-vodka-pasta-recipe-under-5-dollars-easy-15-minute-college-meal/