Ingredients and Weight:
- Rigatoni: 500 grams (approximately 1 pound)
- Vodka: 1 cup
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
- Grated parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup
- Butter: 3 tablespoons
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh herbs (basil or oregano): a sprinkle
- Beef or Chicken meatballs: 8-10 (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the rigatoni until tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter and add the vodka. Bring to a boil and let the alcohol evaporate for a few minutes.
- Add the heavy cream and parmesan cheese and stir until well combined and slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the vodka sauce and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with meatballs (if using).
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs and bake for 15-20 minutes or until bubbling and golden on top.
- Serve hot with a side of fresh vegetables or salad.
Nutritional Information:
(Based on the ingredients provided)
Calories: approximately 500-600 per serving (depends on meatballs if added)
Fat: 25-30 grams
Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
Protein: 15-20 grams (depends on meatballs if added)
Dish Characteristics:
- Vodka sauce gives a creamy and smooth texture to the rigatoni.
- The dish has a unique flavor combination of vodka and cheese with pasta.
- It is rich in flavor and makes a great dish for special occasions or when you want something different from regular pasta dishes.
User Comments:
- "This is an amazing dish! The vodka sauce is so creamy and delicious." - John Doe, New York.
- "I added chicken meatballs to this dish and it was a hit! My family loved it." - Jane Smith, Los Angeles.
- "This is a unique dish that I will definitely make again." - Michael Johnson, San Francisco.
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure to use high-quality vodka for the best flavor.
- If you don't want to use meatballs, you can skip them or add your favorite pasta toppings like shrimp or vegetables instead.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired.