Spicy Vodka Rigatoni Recipe | Creamy 25 Min Pasta

This Spicy Vodka Rigatoni is creamy, bold, and irresistibly comforting — a perfect blend of tomato richness, silky creaminess, and a punch of heat. Ready in just 25 minutes, this pasta is ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or whenever you want a restaurant-style dish at home.

Why You’ll Love This Pasta

🔥 Perfect Level of Heat: Red pepper flakes add a spicy kick.
🍅 Rich & Creamy Sauce: Tomato paste and cream make it luxurious.
🍝 Restaurant-Style Flavor: Bold, smooth, and deeply satisfying.
⚡ Ready in 25 Minutes: Fast, simple, and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:

12 oz rigatoni
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
½ cup vodka
¾ cup heavy cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan
½ tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Optional Add-Ins:

Grilled chicken
Italian sausage
Sautéed mushrooms
Spinach

How to Make Spicy Vodka Rigatoni

Step 1 – Cook the Pasta:
Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Reserve pasta water.

Step 2 – Start the Base:
Melt butter in a pan and sauté garlic until fragrant.

Step 3 – Build the Flavor:
Add tomato paste and cook until deepened in color.

Step 4 – Add Vodka & Cream:
Pour in vodka and let it reduce, then stir in heavy cream and red pepper flakes.

Step 5 – Combine:
Add pasta to the sauce, mix in Parmesan, and adjust with pasta water if needed for a silky finish.

Tips for the Best Vodka Rigatoni

🔥 Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice level.
🍝 Add pasta water slowly for smooth, creamy texture.
🧈 Let the tomato paste caramelize for deeper flavor.
🧀 Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melt.

What to Serve With

• Garlic bread
• Simple green salad
• Grilled chicken or shrimp

Conclusion

This Spicy Vodka Rigatoni is creamy, fiery, and full of rich flavor — a quick and comforting pasta dish that tastes like it came straight from a trendy Italian restaurant. Perfect for busy nights, special meals, or anytime you crave bold and creamy pasta. 🍝🔥✨