Irresistible Creamy Orzo With Vodka Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups orzo
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.

2. Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic to the oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

3. Deglaze with Vodka
Carefully pour in the vodka, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate.

4. Add Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste, and cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize slightly.

5. Incorporate Broth and Orzo
Add the chicken broth, orzo, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine, bringing the mixture to a simmer.

6. Cook Orzo
Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes or until the orzo is cooked to al dente. The liquid should be mostly absorbed, creating a creamy texture.

7. Make It Creamy
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until well incorporated.

8. Finish with Parmesan and Basil
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Sprinkle in the sliced basil leaves and red pepper flakes, stirring gently to combine.

9. Final Touch
Drizzle remaining 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil over the top, and serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and basil if desired.

Preparation & Cooking Times

- Preparation Time:
- PT10M
- 10 minutes
- Cooking Time:
- PT25M
- 25 minutes
- Total Time:
- PT35M
- 35 minutes

Type of Dish

- Dinner

Keywords

Orzo recipe, vodka sauce, creamy pasta, basil orzo, dinner recipe, gourmet pasta, tomato sauce, Parmesan cheese, stovetop meal, Italian-inspired dish

Recipe Yield

Serves 4 adults

Calories

Total Calories: 1,940

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