Description
Penne alla Vodka combines the perfect blend of creamy sauce, zesty tomatoes, and a splash of vodka for an irresistible dish. It’s quick to make and great for a comforting meal any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish)
- salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and garlic, sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Carefully pour in the vodka and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, reducing by half to extract flavors.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes, then simmer for 10-12 minutes until the sauce thickens and deepens in flavor.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is silky and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked penne into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, let the vodka reduce fully to enhance the richness of the sauce.
Make it a full meal by serving with a side salad or garlic bread.
For a vegetarian option, omit the cheese or use a cheese substitute.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 60mg