Why Choose Between Two Favorites?
Okay, tell me you haven’t stood in your kitchen, torn between whipping up some rich, velvety vodka sauce pasta or diving into the cheesy depths of mac & cheese. Been there? SAME.
That’s why this Vodka Sauce Mac & Cheese is the hybrid comfort food of our dreams. It’s bold, creamy, ultra-cheesy, and full of flavor with just the right hint of heat. And guess what? It all comes together in one pan, with pantry staples, in less than 30 minutes. Yes please!
Let’s break it down, step-by-step. You’re going to LOVE this one.
Ingredients You’ll Need 🧀🍅
Here’s everything you need to recreate this creamy masterpiece:
- ½ lb pasta (elbow, shells, rigatoni – pick your fav!)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp butter
- Olive oil, just a dash
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 shot vodka (optional – see substitutions below!)
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¾ cup mozzarella, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan, grated
- Salt, pepper, garlic & onion powder – for seasoning
- Fresh basil, a handful, chopped
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook Your Pasta
Boil your pasta in salted water until just al dente. Right before draining, scoop out ½ cup of that starchy pasta water – you’ll need this liquid gold to get your sauce perfectly creamy. Set your pasta aside.
🔥 Keira Tip: Short pasta with ridges (like rigatoni or cavatappi) really grabs the sauce. Go with your gut and your pantry!
2. Start the Flavor Base
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tbsp of butter with a splash of olive oil. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant — just a minute or two.
3. Build That Vodka Sauce
Now for the magic: Stir in 3 tbsp of tomato paste and cook it down until it turns a deeper, brick red color. This caramelizes the paste and adds incredible depth.
Then add your shot of vodka and cook for 1–2 minutes to let the alcohol burn off. Don’t worry — it’s all about flavor here, not booze.
✨ No vodka? You can skip it entirely or sub with a splash of broth or even lemon juice for brightness!
4. Make It Creamy
Pour in 1.5 cups of heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it gently simmer for 5–7 minutes, so the flavors can cozy up. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste.
5. Time for the CHEESE
Stir in your trio of cheeses:
- 1 cup cheddar for sharpness
- ¾ cup mozzarella for that ooey-gooey pull
- ½ cup parmesan for depth and saltiness
Add the chopped fresh basil for a hint of herby goodness and stir everything together until melted into a luscious, cheesy sauce.
6. Toss and Finish
Now fold in your cooked pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and make everything silky smooth. Let it simmer together for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors absorb.
Top with extra Parmesan and more basil if you’re feelin’ fancy — and if you’re feeling extra, slide it under the broiler for a minute or two to get those cheesy golden edges. HEAVEN.
Why This Recipe Works
- Combines two comfort food faves into one unforgettable dish.
- Customizable – swap cheeses or make it vodka-free.
- Ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
- Perfect for weeknights or impressing guests.
Substitutions & Variations
Want to put your own spin on it? Go for it!
- Vodka-free: Sub with veggie broth, chicken broth, or a splash of lemon juice.
- Lighter version: Use half & half or whole milk instead of heavy cream (just simmer a bit longer to thicken).
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, crispy pancetta, or even ground sausage all work beautifully here.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes will give it that extra kick.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Leftovers? Lucky you!
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creaminess.
- Avoid microwaving too long or it might get grainy.
Let’s Talk About Serving
This Vodka Sauce Mac & Cheese is totally satisfying on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread (because, carbs on carbs)
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted veggies for a balanced plate
And if you really want to level up? Serve it in a bread bowl. Yes. I said it. You’re welcome.
Final Thoughts
This is your sign to stop choosing between vodka sauce pasta and mac & cheese — just make both in one pot. It’s bold, indulgent, and wildly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, a date night, or just treating yourself, this Vodka Sauce Mac and Cheese is the answer.
Try it once, and I promise… this one’s going into your regular rotation. 💛
📌 Don’t Forget to Pin & Share!
Loved this recipe? Tag me @KeiraRecipes and show off your gooey, cheesy masterpiece! I need to see those cheese pulls!