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Fusilli (Pasta) With Vodka Sauce

Fusilli (Pasta With Vodka Sauce recipe image
This classic Italian-American dish features fusilli pasta tossed in a luxurious vodka sauce that balances creamy richness with a subtle tang from tomatoes and a gentle kick from vodka. The sauce is built on a base of saut&# 195;©ed onions, garlic, and mushrooms, which add depth and earthiness. Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a velvety texture that clings beautifully to the spiraled pasta. ItâÂÂs a comforting yet sophisticated meal that feels special without being difficult to prepare. Ideal for date nights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. Serve with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete experience.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4
Calories: 53.8
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Italian-American dish features fusilli pasta tossed in a luxurious vodka sauce that balances creamy richness with a subtle tang from tomatoes and a gentle kick from vodka. The sauce is built on a base of saut&# 195;©ed onions, garlic, and mushrooms, which add depth and earthiness. Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a velvety texture that clings beautifully to the spiraled pasta. ItâÂÂs a comforting yet sophisticated meal that feels special without being difficult to prepare. Ideal for date nights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. Serve with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete experience.
Ingredients
  • 1 pound Fusilli pasta
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2/3 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 cups sliced mushrooms
  • 3/4 cup vodka
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1/4 tsp basil
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 3 large tomatoes, chopped
Directions
  1. 1
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook fusilli according to package directions until al dente.
  2. 2
    Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter.
  3. 3
    Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the saucepan and sauté, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes until softened.
  4. 4
    Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes longer until they begin to release their moisture.
  5. 5
    Reduce heat to medium-low and add vodka, salt, pepper, and basil.
  6. 6
    Simmer the mixture for 20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the alcohol to cook off.
  7. 7
    Stir in heavy cream and cook for 2 minutes until heated through but not boiling.
  8. 8
    Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
  9. 9
    Drain the cooked fusilli and place it in a large serving bowl.
  10. 10
    Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and chopped tomatoes to the warm pasta.
  11. 11
    Pour the vodka sauce over the pasta and toss gently until everything is evenly coated and creamy.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 53.8kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 6.1g10%
Saturated Fat 3.8g19%
Cholesterol 16.1mg6%
Sodium 48.2mg3%
Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 0.0g
Protein 0.1g1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For a richer sauce, you can increase the amount of heavy cream to 1.5 cups.

If you prefer a tomato-forward flavor, consider adding 1/2 cup of crushed tomatoes along with the fresh tomatoes.

Vodka helps to enhance the tomato flavor and balance the creaminess; do not skip it unless necessary. If avoiding alcohol, substitute with an extra 1/4 cup of pasta water and a splash of lemon juice.

Fresh basil can be used instead of dried for a brighter herb flavor.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore consistency.

Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.

Keywords: fusilli, vodka sauce, pasta, italian, cream, mushrooms, parmesan, vegetarian, dinner, comfort food, tomato sauce, garlic, onion, basil, heavy cream, weeknight meal, easy pasta, rich sauce, homemade, family dinner
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/fusilli-pasta-with-vodka-sauce/