Penne Alla Vodka
Enjoy a delicious and elegant Penne alla Vodka dish featuring al dente penne pasta in a creamy, tomato-infused sauce enriched with a subtle vodka kick. Perfect for dinner parties or casual family meals.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for sauce
- Cooking spoon
- Colander
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can (14 ounces / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) vodka
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces (340 g) penne pasta
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Tip: Save a cup of the pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce if needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Vodka
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vodka. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off while the flavors meld together deliciously.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a slight kick. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
- Add the drained penne to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Allow everything to heat through for about 2 minutes, so the pasta absorbs the flavorful sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Serve your Penne alla Vodka hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of elegance.
Notes
Pro tips: Use high-quality vodka for a smoother flavor. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes. Substitute cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. Experiment with adding cooked sausage or mushrooms for additional flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.