Keto Vodka Sauce

This Keto Vodka Sauce is a creamy, rich, and luscious addition to your low-carb repertoire. Perfectly paired with zucchini noodles or keto-friendly pasta, it's a comfort dish that doesn't compromise your macros. The combination of ripe tomatoes, smooth vodka, and a touch of heavy cream creates a flavor that's indulgent yet compliant with your ketogenic lifestyle.

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Keyword Keto Italian Recipe, Keto Vodka Sauce, Low Carb Pasta Sauce

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings servings

Calories 280kcal

Equipment

Large skillet
Measuring cups and spoons
Garlic press
Cheese grater
Stirring Spoon

Ingredients

1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (240g)
½ cup vodka (120ml)
½ cup heavy cream (120ml)
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (30g)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (56g)
3 cloves garlic, minced (9g)
1 small onion, finely chopped (70g)
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (2g)
½ teaspoon salt (2g)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (1g)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Begin by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Carefully pour in the vodka to the skillet. Allow it to simmer and reduce by half, which will take approximately 7-10 minutes. This concentrates the flavor and cooks off the alcohol.
Stir the crushed tomatoes into the skillet, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, then let the sauce simmer for another 10 minutes to meld the flavors together.
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce achieves a uniform color and texture. Simmer on low for an additional 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If the sauce is too thick, a splash of water can be added to reach the desired consistency.
Serve hot over your favorite keto-friendly pasta substitute, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, replace vodka with chicken broth or non-alcoholic white wine.

This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.

If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend with an immersion blender before adding the cream and cheese.

Adjust the level of red pepper flakes to your preference for heat.

Nutrition