Ina Garten’s Vodka Sauce Recipe
The Ina Garten’s Vodka Sauce Recipe is creamy, rich and full of flavor. It is simple to make at home. This sauce combines tomato, cream and a splash of vodka for a smooth, balanced taste.
Ingredients
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic cloves minced – 3
- Red pepper flakes – ¼ teaspoon optional
- Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons
- Crushed tomatoes – 1 can 28 ounces
- Vodka – ¼ cup
- Heavy cream – ¾ cup
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Fresh basil chopped – 2 tablespoons
- Parmesan cheese grated – ½ cup
Instructions
Heat Olive Oil
- Place a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add olive oil and minced garlic. Stir until fragrant, about one minute. Do not burn the garlic.
Add Red Pepper Flakes and Tomato Paste
- Add red pepper flakes if desired. Stir in tomato paste. Cook for two minutes. This deepens the tomato flavor and creates richness.
Add Crushed Tomatoes
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well. Bring to a simmer for about ten minutes. Sauce will thicken slightly and become flavorful.
Add Vodka
- Pour vodka into the sauce. Stir and let it cook for five minutes. Alcohol will cook off, leaving a subtle flavor.
Add Cream
- Slowly add heavy cream while stirring. Reduce heat to low. Sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
Finish with Basil and Parmesan
- Add chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese melts completely. The sauce should be silky and rich.
Serve
- Pour over cooked pasta, grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for best flavor.
- Add vodka slowly and cook well to remove alcohol.
- Stir often to prevent sticking.
- Use fresh basil at the end for bright flavor.
- Serve immediately for creamy texture.