Spicy Vodka Rigatoni is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of vodka sauce with a hint of heat. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and is sure to impress with its bold flavors and smooth texture.

Ingredients

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making Spicy Vodka Rigatoni takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Rigatoni: Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. Sauté Onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes and Vodka: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vodka. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix Together: Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the spicy vodka rigatoni hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious pasta dish!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Spicy Vodka Rigatoni (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	550
Protein	15g
Fat	30g
Carbohydrates	55g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	5g

Tips for Customization

• Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for added protein.
• Vegetable Options: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Spice Level: Increase or decrease the red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.

Conclusion

Spicy Vodka Rigatoni is a rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the warmth of spices with the smoothness of vodka sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy this delightful recipe!