5-Ingredient Vegan Vodka Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Vodka Pasta

This 5-ingredient Vegan Vodka Pasta is the ultimate creamy, rich, and comforting meal—without any dairy! ????????

Inspired by the classic Penne alla Vodka, this plant-based version swaps heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative while still delivering a silky smooth, bold-flavored sauce. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect weeknight meal in just 15 minutes!

Serve it with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, fresh basil, or chili flakes for extra flavor!

Ingredients (Serves 4)

12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
1 cup canned tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
¼ cup vodka
½ cup canned coconut milk or cashew cream (for creaminess)
2 tablespoons olive oil
(Optional Add-ins): Red pepper flakes, garlic, onion, basil, nutritional yeast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta until al dente, according to package instructions.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Make the Vodka Sauce

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Pour in the tomato sauce and let it simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add vodka and cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off.

Step 3: Add the Creamy Element

Stir in coconut milk or cashew cream, mixing until the sauce turns a smooth pink color.
Let it simmer for 2 more minutes, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 4: Toss & Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Garnish with fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or nutritional yeast for extra flavor.
Serve warm and enjoy this dairy-free, creamy vodka pasta!

Why This Recipe Works So Well

Rich & creamy without dairy! – Coconut milk or cashew cream makes this silky smooth.
Simple & quick – Only 5 ingredients and 15 minutes needed!
Bold, deep flavors – The vodka enhances the tomato sauce’s richness.
Perfect for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day!

Expert Tips & Tricks

Let the vodka cook off – Simmer for 2-3 minutes to remove the alcohol taste while keeping the depth of flavor.
Use high-quality canned tomatoes – San Marzano tomatoes give the best taste.
For extra creaminess, blend the sauce before adding the pasta.
Swap vodka for white wine if you prefer a milder alcohol flavor.
Want more umami? Add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast or miso paste!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)

Calories: 380
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g

Serving Suggestions

With a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
Topped with vegan Parmesan or toasted pine nuts.
Paired with a fresh arugula salad for a light meal.
With a glass of plant-based white wine for a fancy touch!