Penne with Vodka sauce
Rating: ⭐ 0 (0 votes)Rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced, Penne alla Vodka is a beloved Italian-American classic. A smooth tomato cream sauce infused with garlic, a touch of heat, and vodka clings beautifully to tender penne pasta. Finished with Parmesan and fresh basil, this comforting dish is elegant enough for guests yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes can use tomato puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp peper adjust to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup basil or parsley for garnish
Directions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
4. Carefully pour in the vodka and simmer for 1–2 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Add the drained penne to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
9. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.