If pasta is your love language, you are going to fall for this Snowflake Pasta with Vodka Sauce – it’s creamy, cozy, and oh-so-cute! The limited-edition snowflake-shaped pasta, available exclusively at Walmart for a short time, turns your weeknight dinner into a festive little celebration. This isn’t just about the aesthetic though (although it is adorable). We’re talking rich, velvety vodka sauce clinging to every snowy edge of this pasta. A true winter wonderland on a plate!
Let’s dive into how to make this seasonal dish that’s perfect for cold nights, dinner parties, or just a cozy moment with your favorite rom-com.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta:
- Limited Edition Snowflake Pasta: So cute it makes dinner feel like a celebration!
- Creamy Tomato Vodka Sauce: Velvety, savory, and rich.
- Perfect for Entertaining: This recipe is a conversation starter and crowd-pleaser.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Pasta Base:
- ½ lb Snowflake Pasta (or any short pasta if unavailable)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter
- Dash of olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 shot (about 2 tbsp) vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½–1 cup reserved pasta water
Seasonings:
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Dried parsley
How to Make Snowflake Pasta with Vodka Sauce
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your snowflake pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Start the Base of Your Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter with a dash of olive oil. Add in your minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Add Tomato Paste
Stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato paste and let it cook for 2–3 minutes until it deepens in color and begins to caramelize. This step really builds that deep umami flavor.
4. Add Vodka
Pour in the shot of vodka and stir until fully incorporated. Let it cook for another minute to allow the alcohol to burn off.
5. Add Cream & Simmer
Lower the heat slightly, then whisk in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for about 7–10 minutes. The sauce will thicken and become super creamy.
6. Season It Up
Sprinkle in salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of dried parsley to taste.
7. Add Pasta & Cheese
Add your cooked pasta into the sauce along with the Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until combined, adding splashes of pasta water as needed to reach your desired creaminess.
8. Top & Serve
Finish with extra Parm and a bit more parsley. Serve hot and prepare for the happiest pasta moment ever!
Keira’s Tips for the Creamiest Vodka Sauce Ever
- Don’t Skip the Simmer: Letting the sauce simmer after adding cream gives it time to thicken and meld.
- Use High-Quality Parm: It melts better and adds more depth.
- Reserve More Pasta Water Than You Think: You might need a little extra for reheating leftovers!
- Make It Boozy-Free: Skip the vodka if you prefer—you’ll still get a rich, creamy tomato sauce.
How to Store & Reheat
Store: Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Reheat: Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water and reheat gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave.
Pairing Ideas
- Drink: A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
- Side: Garlic bread, a fresh arugula salad, or roasted veggies.
Final Thoughts
This Snowflake Pasta with Vodka Sauce is proof that a little whimsy can go a long way in the kitchen. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or your holiday guests, it’s a festive bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness that just makes people smile. So go ahead, grab that cute pasta while it lasts and whip up a dish that tastes like winter magic.
Happy twirling! ❄️