Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream

Name: Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup vodka; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh basil leaves, for garnish; 12 oz pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine works well); Salt for pasta water

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I have always been a fan of creamy pasta dishes, and this Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream has become one of my absolute favorites. The combination of the luscious vodka cream sauce with a hint of tomato and the rich flavors of herbs makes for an unforgettable meal. Each bite is a delightful balance of creaminess and tanginess, perfect for elevating any dinner occasion. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a cozy night in or an impressive dish to share with friends.

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:37:35.074Z

This dish came to life in my kitchen when I was experimenting with leftover ingredients. I didn't have enough tomato sauce for my pasta craving, so I decided to add some heavy cream and vodka into the mix. The result was not only creamy but also had a lovely pink hue, hence the name ‘Rose Sauce’. I was thrilled with how well the flavors danced together!

        Why You'll Love This Dish
        Creamy sauce that envelops pasta perfectly
The unique blend of tomato and cream flavors
Quick and easy recipe that impresses every time

      

Mastering the Rose Sauce

The key to a rich and luscious rose sauce lies in the layering of flavors. Starting with sautéed onions creates a sweet base that complements the acidity of the crushed tomatoes. As you cook the onions, aim for a golden color to enhance their sweetness, which balances the sauce's flavors beautifully. Don't rush this step; allowing the onions to soften and develop will result in a depth of flavor in your final dish.

When adding the crushed tomatoes, choose a high-quality brand, as this will make a noticeable difference in taste. Look for tomatoes packed in their own juices to ensure freshness. Cooking them down for about five minutes allows their natural sweetness to emerge, setting the stage for the vodka addition. When incorporating the vodka, let it simmer long enough to evaporate the alcohol, which should take around 5-7 minutes, intensifying the overall taste without the sharpness of raw spirits.

Pasta Perfection

Choosing the right pasta type can enhance the overall experience of this dish. While penne and fettuccine are great options, I recommend using pasta that has ridges, like rigatoni, as it holds onto the sauce better. Cooking the pasta until al dente ensures it maintains a slight bite, which works well with the creamy sauce. Remember to reserve some pasta water; its starchiness can help perfect the sauce's consistency.

Properly salting your pasta water is crucial. Aim for a water-to-salt ratio that resembles seawater, as this is your best opportunity to infuse flavor into the pasta itself. A common misstep is under-salting, which can lead to bland pasta. If you're hesitant, taste the water. The pasta should carry a flavor that complements the richness of the rose sauce, creating a harmonious dish.

Ingredients

For the Rose Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup vodka
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

For the Pasta

12 oz pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine works well)
Salt for pasta water

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Vodka

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes. Then, carefully pour in the vodka and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the sauce to thicken.

Finish with Cream

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. You can also switch up the herbs according to your taste preferences, such as adding oregano or thyme.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this rose sauce pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain optimal texture, avoid mixing the pasta with the sauce before storing; keep them separate and combine when you're ready to reheat. The cream can sometimes separate when cooling, so gently warming the sauce on low heat and adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help restore its creaminess.

For longer storage, consider freezing the rose sauce on its own, which can last up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop. Again, adding a bit of pasta water will help revive the sauce's luscious texture. Be cautious with reheating; too high a heat can break the cream, leading to a grainy texture, so keep the heat low and stir gently.

Variations and Pairings

Feel free to tailor the rose sauce to your liking. For an added layer of flavor, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the sauce. Both ingredients not only enhance the dish's nutritional profile but also complement the creamy base with their earthy tones. If you're in the mood for some protein, grilled chicken or shrimp are excellent additions that can make the dish more substantial.

Serving this dish with garlic bread or a fresh salad can create a well-rounded meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta, while a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan enhances the flavors. Feel free to get creative with garnishes; a dash of smoked paprika can introduce a new level of warmth and complexity to the finished dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat gently before combining with the pasta.

→ Is there a substitute for vodka?

If you want to avoid alcohol, you can use additional vegetable or chicken broth for a similar flavor profile.

→ What type of pasta pairs best with this sauce?

Penne and fettuccine are both excellent choices because they hold onto the sauce well. However, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape!

→ Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great additions. Toss them in when you are sautéing the onions for added flavor and nutrition.