Creamy Cherry Tomato Vodka Rigatoni Pasta
JojoM adapted from recipeincaption

Juicy cherry tomatoes, garlic, cream, and vodka come together in this irresistible rigatoni pasta. A cozy weeknight dinner with minimal effort!
Creamy Cherry Tomato Vodka Rigatoni Pasta 🍅🥂
If you’re craving a pasta that’s cozy, creamy, and full of flavor, this Cherry Tomato Vodka Rigatoni is the ultimate weeknight dinner. With juicy cherry tomatoes, garlic, cream, and a splash of vodka, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes — minimal effort, maximum comfort. Perfect for date nights at home or a quick family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Rigatoni Recipe 💖
- Flavor-packed – Sweet cherry tomatoes simmer down into a jammy, garlicky sauce.
- Creamy & indulgent – Parmesan and cream give it that luscious texture.
- Customizable – Add grilled chicken, sausage, or salmon for extra protein.
- Quick & easy – Ready in half an hour with pantry staples.
Cooking Tips & Tricks 👩🍳
- Blend half the tomato sauce for an ultra-smooth, restaurant-style finish.
- Always cook pasta al dente and save some pasta water — it’s the secret to silky sauce.
- Top with plenty of fresh basil and extra Parmesan for that Italian touch.
Serving Ideas 🍽️
This pasta is hearty enough on its own, but you can make it a full meal by serving with:
- A crisp green salad with balsamic dressing
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- A glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
What does the vodka do in vodka sauce?
Vodka helps emulsify the tomatoes and cream, making the sauce smoother and enhancing flavor.
Can I make this without vodka?
Absolutely! The sauce will still be creamy and delicious — just skip the vodka step.
What proteins go well with this pasta?
Grilled chicken, spicy sausage, or seared salmon pair beautifully with the creamy tomato sauce.
Final Thoughts 🌿
This creamy cherry tomato vodka rigatoni pasta is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it’s a bowl of comfort you’ll come back to again and again.
👉 Save this recipe for your next weeknight dinner — it’s sure to be a hit!
Creamy Cherry Tomato Vodka Rigatoni Pasta
JojoM adapted from recipeincaptionJuicy cherry tomatoes, garlic, cream, and vodka come together in this irresistible rigatoni pasta. A cozy weeknight dinner with minimal effort!

Chef's Tips
Blend half the sauce for extra creaminess.
Add grilled chicken, sausage, or salmon for protein.
Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
Tools Used
Wooden Spoon
We use affiliate links, which may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Ingredients
Pasta
Sauce
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- 2
Cook rigatoni until al dente, reserving 1 cup pasta water before draining.
Make the Sauce
- 1
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high.
- 2
Sauté minced shallot for 3 minutes until soft.
- 3
Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, then stir in seasonings.
- 4
Add cherry tomatoes and 1 tsp salt. Cook 8–10 minutes until softened and jammy, smashing gently with a spoon.
- 5
(Optional) Blend half the tomato mixture and stir back in with tomato paste.
- 6
Stir in vodka and cook 2–3 minutes until evaporated.
- 7
Reduce heat to low, stir in cream, and simmer gently.
- 8
Add parmesan, basil, and pasta. Toss together, adding pasta water if needed.
Finish & Serve
- 1
Taste and adjust seasoning.
- 2
Serve hot topped with fresh basil and extra parmesan.
Comments & Reviews
Jamie McGuire
9/21/2025
Had me at vodka! This is my new favorite weeknight pasta.
Joe Callender
9/21/2025
I wasn’t sure about the vodka, but wow it makes the sauce amazing.
Diannaaa
9/21/2025
I added chicken and broccoli, turned out fire 🔥
Foodie_Lover
9/21/2025
So easy to follow, even my husband managed to cook it 😂
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.