Rigatoni with Easy Vodka Sauce

Ingredients for Rigatoni with Easy Vodka Sauce

• Kosher salt

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, smashed

• 1 (130g) tube double-concentrated tomato paste

• 1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

• 60g vodka

• 180ml double cream

• 450g rigatoni

• 110g Parmesan, finely grated

• Basil leaves (for serving)

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large Dutch oven or other heavy pot over medium. Cook onion and garlic, stirring constantly, just until onion is starting to brown around the edges, 5–7 minutes. Add tomato paste and red pepper flakes and stir to coat onion. Cook, stirring often, until paste is deep red and starting to brown and stick to the bottom of pot, 5–7 minutes. Add vodka, scraping up brown bits; reduce heat to low.

Using a heatproof measuring glass, scoop out about 60ml boiling water from pot and add double cream. Stirring constantly, gradually pour cream mixture into onion mixture and cook, stirring, until a smooth sauce forms. Remove from heat.

Cook pasta in the pot of boiling water, stirring occasionally, until al dente. About 1 minute before pasta is done, scoop out 240ml pasta cooking liquid.

Return Dutch oven to low heat. Using a slotted spoon, transfer pasta to Dutch oven. Stir in 120ml pasta cooking liquid, then gradually add half of Parmesan, stirring constantly to melt. Pasta should be coated with a smooth, glossy sauce. Season with salt; add more pasta cooking liquid if sauce is too thick.

Divide pasta among bowls. Top with basil and remaining Parmesan and drizzle with a little oil.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.