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Penne alla Vodka Pasta

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Penne alla Vodka is a creamy, dreamy pasta dish made with penne, a silky tomato-vodka sauce, and a touch of cream. It’s rich, flavorful, and easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for date night. Top with Parmesan and fresh basil for the ultimate comfort meal!

Ingredients

Scale

  • 12 oz (340g) penne pasta

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 small onion, finely diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

  • ½ cup vodka

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato puree

  • ¾ cup heavy cream

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

  2. Make the sauce:
    In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds more.

  3. Deglaze with vodka:
    Pour in the vodka and simmer for 3–4 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off and the mixture reduce slightly.

  4. Add tomatoes and cream:
    Stir in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Lower the heat and slowly stir in the cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  5. Combine pasta and sauce:
    Add the cooked penne to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

  6. Finish with cheese:
    Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

 

Notes

  • Don’t worry – the alcohol cooks off and leaves just a rich depth of flavor!

  • Use crushed red pepper for a little heat, or leave it out for a milder version.

  • Add cooked pancetta, sausage, or grilled chicken for extra protein.

 

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/penne-alla-vodka-pasta/