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Cheesecake Factory Vodka Sauce Recipe
Ginna

Cheesecake Factory Vodka Sauce Recipe

Creating the perfect Cheesecake Factory vodka sauce recipe at home might seem daunting, but it’s surprisingly achievable with the right ingredients and technique. This restaurant-style sauce transforms ordinary pasta into an extraordinary dining experience.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Calories: 112
Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • ¼ cup 60ml extra-virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup 75g finely chopped shallot or onion
  • 4 to 6 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ teaspoon Aleppo pepper or crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons 35g tomato paste
  • 2 28oz cans whole peeled tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt plus more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • ½ cup 15g chopped fresh basil leaves or 1-2 tablespoons dried basil

Method
 

  1. 1. Heat the Oil
    Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.

    2. Sauté the Aromatics
    Add the finely chopped shallot and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent browning.

    3. Build the Flavor Base
    Stir in the minced garlic, pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly to let the flavors develop and prevent burning.

    4. Add the Tomatoes
    Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juices. Use a spoon or potato masher to gently break them up for a chunky sauce. Don’t worry about perfect consistency at this stage.

    5. Season and Simmer
    Lower the heat so the sauce gently simmers. Stir in the salt and pepper. Let it cook at a low simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, or until it reduces by about a third.

    6. Taste and Adjust
    Throughout cooking, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.

    7. Finish with Basil
    Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh basil. For a smoother sauce, blend with an immersion blender to your desired consistency.

Video

Notes

Store your homemade Cheesecake Factory vodka sauce in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the sauce for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.