Ingredients

1/4 cup vodka

1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon for a good amount of spice, my personal preference)

1 tablespoon olive oil

3/4 cup chopped onions

2 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 jar (26 to 32 oz.) marinara sauce

1/2 cup half-and-half cream

1/4 cup sour cream

1/4 cup vodka, optional (yes, a second 1/4 cup)

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

2 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese

Preparation

  1. combine 1/4 cup vodka and red pepper; set aside.

  2. heat oil in large saucepan over medium-high heat. add onions; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, 4 to 5 minutes. add garlic and salt; cook 1 minute more.

  3. add vodka/red pepper mixture. cook over high heat until vodka is nearly evaporated. stir in marinara sauce and additional vodka (if desired); simmer 5 minutes.

  4. add cream, sour cream, basil and parmesan; heat through, another 5-10 minutes or so. serve with your favorite hot pasta and enjoy!

makes 4-6 servings.