Olive Garden Vodka Sauce
Olive Garden’s vodka sauce is a creamy, rich, and flavorful tomato-based sauce that brings a touch of elegance to any pasta dish. The combination of tomatoes, heavy cream, and vodka creates a balanced and indulgent sauce that's sure to satisfy. This recipe mimics the restaurant favorite, making it easy to enjoy a comforting, creamy vodka sauce at home. Whether you pair it with penne, rigatoni, or your favorite pasta, it’s the perfect accompaniment to a delicious meal.
Equipment
- 1 large saucepan or skillet
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 knife
- 1 cutting board
- 1 grater (for Parmesan)
- 1 measuring cup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat in a large saucepan. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Tomato Paste and Crushed Tomatoes:
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow it to caramelize. Then, add the crushed tomatoes to the pan, stir well, and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Add the Vodka:
- Pour in the vodka and stir the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off and blend with the tomato sauce.
Add the Cream:
- Lower the heat to low, then add the heavy cream. Stir gently to combine, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Allow the sauce to simmer on low for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season and Finish:
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve:
- Serve the vodka sauce with your favorite pasta, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Consistency Adjustment: If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water or more cream to achieve your desired consistency.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes for a spicier sauce or use a fresh chili for extra heat.
- Meat Option: For a meaty version, add ground sausage or chicken to the sauce for a protein-packed dish.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan butter and coconut cream in place of the dairy products for a dairy-free option.
- Storage: This sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop with a little cream or pasta water to restore its creamy texture.