Chef Serge Shares Perfect Vodka Sauce Recipe on THV11’s The Vine

Our Executive Chef Serge Krikorian returned to THV11’s The Vine recently, continuing his regular series of cooking demonstrations but this time with a special guest and an important cause to highlight. Chef Serge was joined by Holly from the Cooper-Anthony Mercy Child Advocacy Center (CAMCAC) to not only share a delicious recipe but also to raise awareness for the “Sip, Savor, & Support” charity gala.

A Pasta Dish with Italian Heritage

For this segment, Chef Serge demonstrated how to prepare a classic Pasta alla Vodka – a rich, creamy pasta sauce that originated in Italy in the 1970s. This iconic sauce has become a staple in Italian-American cuisine, beloved for its perfect balance of tangy tomatoes, silky cream, and the subtle depth that vodka brings to the flavor profile.

“What I love about vodka sauce is how it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special,” Chef Serge explains. “The vodka doesn’t add an alcohol flavor (as one might assume) but instead it actually acts as an emulsifier that helps the tomatoes and cream blend together perfectly, while also releasing flavors that would otherwise remain dormant.”

Perfect for Any Gathering

Vodka sauce is versatile enough for both casual family dinners and more sophisticated gatherings. At Vibrant Occasions, we’ve served variations of this sauce at everything from intimate dinner parties to elegant wedding receptions.

“This is one of those crowd-pleasing dishes that fits nearly any occasion,” Chef Serge shares. “It’s comfort food that still feels special enough for a celebration.”

The dish was featured in a more elaborate presentation at the “Sip, Savor, & Support” fundraiser, where Chef Serge collaborated with Chef Matt Fuller of 501 Prime to create a spectacular pasta alla vodka course served dramatically from a large Parmesan wheel.

Supporting Child Advocacy

Holly from CAMCAC joined Chef Serge on the segment to discuss the important work their organization does as the only hospital-based child advocacy center in Arkansas. Serving more than 800 clients annually across a four-county area, CAMCAC provides comprehensive services for children who have experienced abuse – all free of charge.

The “Sip, Savor, & Support at The Hill” fundraising gala took place on April 10, 2025 and directly benefited these crucial services. Vibrant Occasions Catering was proud to partner with Chef Matt Fuller for this elegant evening featuring a specially curated wine pairing menu, a fashion show, live music, and a live auction.

“By donating a portion of our services for this special evening, we hope to help CAMCAC continue their mission of providing hope, healing, and justice to child abuse survivors,” said Chef Serge.

Try This Restaurant-Quality Recipe at Home

Want to recreate this delicious pasta dish in your own kitchen? Chef Serge has kindly shared his recipe for home cooks:

Amazing Vodka Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Linguini or pasta of your choice

Directions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. Deglaze with Vodka: Slowly pour in the vodka, stirring to deglaze the pan and pick up any flavorful bits. Let the vodka cook off for about 2-3 minutes until it’s mostly evaporated.
3. Tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes to the pan and stir to combine. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Creamy Finish: Stir in the heavy cream, and let it cook for another 5-10 minutes. The sauce will turn a beautiful, rich pink color. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Cheesy Goodness: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce. This will add depth and an extra creamy texture.
6. Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh basil on top.
7. Serve: Toss the sauce with your cooked pasta, making sure to coat it thoroughly. Serve with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Vodka Sauce

Chef Serge shares some professional tips for home cooks:

• Don’t rush cooking off the vodka – you want the alcohol to evaporate while leaving behind the flavor compounds that enhance the sauce.
• This sauce pairs perfectly with penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti, and it’s delicious on its own or with chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• The sauce should simmer gently – a hard boil can cause the cream to separate.
• Fresh basil added at the end brightens the whole dish and adds wonderful aromatic notes.

Sip, Savor, & Support

For more information about Cooper-Anthony Mercy Child Advocacy Center (CAMCAC) or “Sip, Savor & Support,” please contact Holly Heer at holly.heer@mercy.net.

For catering inquiries, please contact Mary Krikorian at mary@vibrantoccasionscatering.com or visit our contact page.