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Penne alla Vodka

A plate of Penne alla Vodka, garnished with fresh basil and parmesan cheese.
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A classic Italian-American pasta dish featuring penne pasta in a creamy tomato sauce with vodka.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup vodka
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook penne pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Stir in heavy cream and vodka. Bring back to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Add the drained penne to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
  • You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: penne alla vodka, pasta, vodka sauce, creamy tomato sauce, Italian pasta, easy dinner

Find it online: https://www.meltitclean.com/penne-alla-vodka-recipe/