Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream

Name: Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup vodka; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish; 12 oz penne or rigatoni; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Oven Recipes

I absolutely adore making Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream—it’s one of my favorite indulgent dishes! The creamy, tomato-infused sauce strikes the perfect balance between comforting and elegant. I love how the hint of vodka enriches the flavor, making it truly special. Every time I prepare this dish, the rich aroma fills my kitchen, making it impossible for anyone to resist. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta recipe always impresses. You won’t believe how simple it is to make, but it feels like a restaurant-quality meal.

Created by

Rosalyn Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:18:46.493Z

When I first tried Rose Sauce Pasta with Vodka Cream at a local restaurant, I was captivated by the flavors that danced on my palate. The blend of tomato and cream created a beautiful hue, complementing the pasta perfectly. As I experimented with recipes at home, I realized that the quality of the ingredients really matters. Using fresh tomatoes and high-quality cream elevates this dish to another level. It’s a wonderful way to showcase culinary skills without spending hours in the kitchen!

One tip I can share from my experience is to let the sauce simmer a bit longer. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the alcohol from the vodka to cook off, leaving a rich, creamy sauce. I often toss in a handful of fresh basil right before serving to add a pop of color and a fresh taste that pairs beautifully with the rose sauce.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy flavor combined with a hint of tomato sweetness
Perfectly balances indulgence and freshness with herbs
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for a satisfying weeknight meal

Mastering the Rose Sauce

The essence of a great rose sauce lies in the careful balance of its ingredients. The crushed tomatoes provide a natural sweetness that complements the richness of the heavy cream. When sautéing the onions, aim for a golden translucence as this brings out their natural sugars and adds depth to the sauce. If you want a more nuanced flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity—a small but impactful adjustment.

The vodka plays a crucial role, enhancing the sauce's flavor without imparting a strong alcohol taste. It helps mellow the acidity of the tomatoes and allows the creamy elements to marry beautifully. Simmering the vodka for at least 5 minutes not only evaporates the alcohol but also concentrates the flavors, so don't rush this step. If you're cooking for kids or want to skip the vodka, a splash of vegetable broth can work as a substitute.

Perfect Pasta Pairing

The choice of pasta can elevate your dish from good to memorable. Penne and rigatoni are great choices due to their ridged surfaces that cling lovingly to the sauce. When cooking the pasta, be sure to test it a minute or two before the package suggests—al dente pasta adds a delightful texture and holds up better when combined with the sauce. I recommend saving that reserved pasta water; it can be a game changer for the sauce's consistency.

If you're looking to accommodate dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on cooking times as these alternatives often have different textures and may cook faster or slower. Regardless of the pasta choice, the goal is to achieve a harmonious blend with the sauce for an upscale dining experience at home.

Ingredients

For the Rose Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup vodka
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

For the Pasta

12 oz penne or rigatoni
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 4-5 minutes, then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

Add Tomatoes and Vodka

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vodka, cooking for 5 minutes. Reduce heat and add the heavy cream, along with oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta in the sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Serve the rose sauce pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, or mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added texture and nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This rose sauce can easily be made ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. You can prepare the sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore its creamy texture. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat to enjoy without any loss of flavor.

If you’d like to prepare the dish entirely in advance, consider slightly undercooking the pasta and combining it with the sauce. When ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet over moderate heat. This method may also allow the pasta to absorb more of the sauce flavors, resulting in a richer dish.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your rose sauce pasta experience, consider serving it with sides that complement its flavors. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, while a light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, can enhance the meal beautifully.

For an extra touch, finish your plated pasta with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat. If you're feeling adventurous, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for more texture and nutrition. This dish is versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes and occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This sauce pairs well with any pasta shape, so feel free to use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta.

→ Is there a substitute for vodka?

If you prefer not to use vodka, you can replace it with a splash of vegetable broth for depth of flavor without alcohol.

→ How can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if necessary.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative, and ensure the broth (if used) is vegetable-based.