Harissa Chili-Based Vodka Sauce with Rigatoni: A Flavor Explosion You Can’t Resist

Pasta lovers, get ready for a bold and spicy twist on a classic! Imagine the rich, creamy goodness of vodka sauce combined with the smoky heat of harissa chili, complemented by crispy bacon, fresh bell peppers, and a generous sprinkle of parmesan and chives. This recipe for Harissa Chili-Based Vodka Sauce with Rigatoni is a deliciously indulgent pasta dish that blends the comforting warmth of Italian pasta with the vibrant flavors of North Africa and the Middle East.

Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner or impress guests at a dinner party, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and heat in the most satisfying way. The combination of harissa, vodka, and cream creates a perfectly balanced sauce that coats the rigatoni noodles beautifully, while the crispy bacon and bell peppers add layers of crunch and sweetness. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why You’ll Love Harissa Chili-Based Vodka Sauce with Rigatoni

1. Spicy Meets Creamy: The harissa brings a smoky, spicy kick, while the vodka sauce offers a silky, creamy texture that balances the heat perfectly.
2. Flavorful Add-ins: Bacon, bell peppers, and fresh herbs bring extra layers of flavor, making each bite more complex and satisfying.
3. Perfect Texture: The rigatoni noodles are great at holding onto the sauce, giving you a hearty, satisfying meal.
4. Quick & Easy: While it may sound like a restaurant-quality dish, this recipe is simple to put together with just a few ingredients and about 30 minutes of cooking time.
5. Customizable: You can adjust the heat level by using more or less harissa, add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or even swap the bacon for sausage or chicken.

Ingredients

For the Harissa Chili Vodka Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 large bell pepper, diced (red, yellow, or orange for sweetness)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano for sweetness)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp harissa paste (adjust based on your heat preference)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz rigatoni (or your favorite pasta)
• Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
• Parmesan cheese, freshly grated, for topping

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