Penne alla Vodka is a rich and creamy pasta dish that has a perfect balance of flavors. The vodka adds a little sharpness, while the cream and tomatoes bring in a velvety smoothness. Here’s a recipe that’s simple, yet delicious!
Penne alla Vodka Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes (or tomato puree)
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Penne:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set the pasta aside.
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Make the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
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Add Tomatoes and Vodka:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
- Add the vodka, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to cook for another 3-4 minutes, reducing a bit, and letting the vodka cook off.
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Cream and Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss it together, making sure all the pasta is coated with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
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Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top. Serve hot!
Tips:
- For extra flavor: You can add a little bit of tomato paste when you add the crushed tomatoes for a deeper, richer flavor.
- For a smoother sauce: If you prefer a super smooth texture, you can blend the sauce before adding the pasta.
- Substituting vodka: If you prefer to skip the alcohol, you can use a splash of white wine or broth instead, though it won’t have quite the same flavor complexity.
Enjoy your creamy, delicious Penne alla Vodka!