Irish Vodka Pasta

Elevate your pasta night with this indulgent and innovative Irish Vodka Pasta! This recipe puts a unique twist on the classic vodka sauce by incorporating a splash of velvety Irish cream liqueur, adding a subtle sweetness and richness to the dish. Al dente penne pasta is coated in a creamy tomato-based sauce, infused with a touch of vodka for depth and complexity. Sautéed garlic and onions provide a savory base, while heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil create a luxurious finish. Ready in just 35 minutes, this flavorful fusion of Italian and Irish influences is perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive date night meal. Serve with a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat or extra Parmesan for a cheesy flourish.

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 300 grams penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 units garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 400 grams crushed tomatoes
• 60 milliliters vodka
• 30 milliliters Irish cream liqueur
• 120 milliliters heavy cream
• 50 grams grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 0.25 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Step 3

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4

Carefully pour in the vodka, stirring well. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes so the alcohol cooks off and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Irish cream liqueur and heavy cream. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 6

Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.

Step 8

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil, stirring gently to combine.

Step 9

Serve the Irish Vodka Pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1187.3 grams (1187.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2526

Total Fat 117.50g	151%
Saturated Fat 54.90g	275%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 232mg	77%
Sodium 3309mg	144%
Total Carbohydrate 263.60g	96%
Dietary Fiber 19.20g	69%
Total Sugars 24.20g
Protein 64.50g	129%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 683mg	53%
Iron 14mg	79%
Potassium 1723mg	37%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 44.6%

Protein: 10.9%

Carbs: 44.5%