If you are looking to impress with a dish that bursts with creamy, savory goodness and a touch of spirited flair, then this Gnocchi Alla Vodka Recipe is exactly what you need in your culinary arsenal. It combines pillowy gnocchi pasta with a luscious vodka-infused tomato sauce, enriched with heavy cream and a hint of spice that dances on your tongue. Every spoonful tells a story of simple ingredients coming together in harmony, creating a meal that feels both indulgent and comforting — perfect for a cozy dinner or when you want to treat yourself to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Gnocchi Alla Vodka Recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the sweetness of finely diced carrot to the richness of heavy cream and the aromatic touch of fresh basil, these components work together to create that perfect balance you’ll crave again and again.
- Olive Oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and serves as the perfect base for sautéing veggies.
- Onion (finely diced): Provides sweetness and a tender bite that melts into the sauce.
- Carrot (finely diced): Offers natural sweetness and a lovely orange tint to your sauce.
- Garlic Cloves (minced): Brings warmth and an intoxicating aroma that wakes up every palate.
- Vodka (or chicken broth): Adds a sharp depth that brightens the tomato flavors and creates a silky texture.
- Whole Tomatoes (28-ounce can): The heart of the sauce, creating a fresh and tangy base.
- Tomato Paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and adds richness.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Gives a subtle kick of spice; optional if you prefer mild.
- Sugar: Cuts acidity from the tomatoes, smoothing the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Lends indulgence and silkiness to the sauce.
- Gnocchi Pasta: Soft, pillow-like dumplings that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated): Brings salty, nutty flavor and a delightful finish.
- Basil Leaves (cut into ribbons): Freshens the dish with herbal brightness and green color.
- Calabrian Chili Paste (optional): Adds smoky, spicy depth if you want to take the heat up a notch.
How to Make Gnocchi Alla Vodka Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the finely diced onion and carrot, sautéing them for about 8 to 10 minutes until they become tender and translucent. This slow cooking draws out their natural sweetness, which forms the flavor foundation for your sauce. Then, add the minced garlic and let it bloom for another minute, filling your kitchen with that irresistible garlicky scent.
Step 2: Deglaze and Infuse Flavors
Pour in the vodka (or chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version), stirring well to deglaze the pan and lift all those delicious browned bits off the bottom. Allow it to simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes so the alcohol cooks out, leaving a lovely depth and subtle sharpness in the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Tomato Base
Add the can of whole tomatoes along with the tomato paste, salt, pepper, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Use your spoon to break up the tomatoes, spreading their juices throughout the mixture. Turn the heat down to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 10 to 15 minutes so the flavors can meld and thicken beautifully.
Step 4: Smooth and Silky
If you prefer a luxuriously smooth sauce, now’s the time to grab your immersion blender or transfer the hot sauce carefully to a blender. Be mindful that it’s hot! This step transforms the chunky mixture into a perfectly velvety base that clings to every gnocchi piece in the next step.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
Once your sauce is smooth, return it to the skillet if needed, and add the gnocchi directly into the sauce. Allow the gnocchi to cook according to the package instructions — it usually takes just a few minutes for them to float to the top, signaling they’re ready. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in about a quarter cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, reserving the rest for garnish. Give everything a good stir and taste, adjusting seasonings like salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 6: Finish with Freshness
To make your Gnocchi Alla Vodka Recipe truly sing, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top along with ribbons of fresh basil. The bright green basil leaves bring a fresh, aromatic contrast to the creamy sauce, while the cheese finishes the dish with that irresistible salty finish.
How to Serve Gnocchi Alla Vodka Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly grated Parmesan and thinly sliced basil ribbons are classic garnishes that complement the creaminess of the sauce and bring inviting color and texture. For a bit of added heat and visual interest, feel free to add a pinch of Calabrian chili flakes or a drizzle of olive oil right before serving.
Side Dishes
This saucy dish pairs wonderfully with simple salads dressed in lemon vinaigrette that cut through the richness, or roasted vegetables that add an earthy, nutritious balance. A crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce and makes the meal feel complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist when entertaining, serve this dish in small, elegant ramekins as individual portions. You can even layer the sauce and gnocchi with fresh mozzarella and bake briefly for a bubbly, comforting casserole take on the Gnocchi Alla Vodka Recipe that’s guaranteed to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of this delicious Gnocchi Alla Vodka Recipe should be transferred to an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for easy and tasty next-day meals that require minimal effort.
Freezing
While gnocchi can sometimes lose texture after freezing, this dish freezes fairly well if you want to save some for later. Freeze the sauced gnocchi in a well-sealed container for up to a month. To thaw, move the container to the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
When reheating, do so over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from sticking or separating. Adding a splash of cream or broth during reheating can help restore creaminess and fresh flavors like when you first made it.
FAQs
Can I substitute vodka with something else?
Absolutely! Chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic alternative that still adds rich flavor without the sharpness of vodka. Tomato juice or water can work in a pinch but won’t have the same depth.
Is gnocchi difficult to cook?
Not at all. Gnocchi usually cook very quickly, and you’ll know they’re done when they float to the top of the sauce or boiling water. Just be gentle while stirring so they don’t break apart.
What does vodka do in this recipe?
Vodka helps to extract and enhance flavors in the tomato sauce while adding a subtle sharpness and silky texture once it’s cooked off. It creates that unique balance you can’t quite get with broth or water.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream, use vegan Parmesan alternatives, and skip the cheese garnish. The flavors will be a bit different but still divine.
Should I use fresh or dried basil?
Fresh basil is highly recommended for this recipe as it offers bright, aromatic notes and lovely visual appeal. Dried basil won’t provide the same fresh flavor or pop of color.
Final Thoughts
Making Gnocchi Alla Vodka Recipe at home is like inviting warmth and deliciousness into your kitchen with every simmer and stir. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly approachable, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Give this recipe a try — once you taste that creamy, comforting sauce wrapped around tender gnocchi, you’ll understand why it’s become a beloved classic in so many homes.
Print
Gnocchi Alla Vodka Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Gnocchi Alla Vodka is a rich and creamy Italian dish featuring pillowy gnocchi pasta simmered in a flavorful vodka-infused tomato sauce, enhanced with garlic, onions, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes or Calabrian chili paste. Finished with heavy cream, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese, this comforting meal is perfect for a quick yet indulgent dinner.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 to 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 Onion (finely diced)
- 1 Carrot (finely diced)
- 4 Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 3/4 cup Vodka (or Chicken Broth)
- 1 (28-ounce) can Whole Tomatoes (or crushed)
- 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
- 2 teaspoons Sugar
- 3/4 to 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 Tablespoon Calabrian Chili Paste (optional – omit red pepper flakes if using)
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb. Gnocchi Pasta
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
- 6 to 8 Basil Leaves (cut into ribbons)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat and add olive oil. Add finely diced onion and carrot, sautéing for 8-10 minutes until softened. Then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute to develop the base flavors.
- Deglaze with Vodka: Pour in the vodka (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, stirring to lift all browned bits off the bottom. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to concentrate.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in whole or crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Break up the tomatoes with a spoon, lower the heat to medium-low, and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened and flavorful.
- Smooth the Sauce: For a silky texture, carefully use an immersion blender directly in the pan to blend the sauce, or transfer it to a blender in batches. Be cautious as the sauce will be hot.
- Cook Gnocchi in Sauce & Finish: Once blended, add the gnocchi directly into the sauce and cook according to package instructions, usually a few minutes until the gnocchi float. Stir in heavy cream and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the dish with the remaining freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil ribbons. Optionally, add Calabrian chili paste for extra heat if not using red pepper flakes. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Substitute vodka with chicken broth for a milder, alcohol-free version.
- Use crushed tomatoes for a chunkier sauce or whole tomatoes for a smoother texture after blending.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes or Calabrian chili paste.
- Gnocchi typically cook in a few minutes; they are done when they float to the surface if boiling, or as per package instructions for pan cooking.
- For a vegetarian version, ensure chicken broth is replaced with vegetable broth or use vodka.
