Name: Penne alla Vodka
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 28 oz crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup vodka; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish); salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Penne alla Vodka is that comforting Italian-American classic that perfectly balances creamy richness with a hint of sophistication. This dish promises a warm embrace with every bite, featuring smooth vodka-infused tomato sauce that clings to the pasta in the most delightful way. It’s a meal that transforms ordinary weeknights into something special without requiring hours in the kitchen. You’ll find the creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it hard to resist, and it’s sure to please both family and guests alike.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Penne alla Vodka
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Penne alla Vodka

I remember the first time I tried making Penne alla Vodka. I was craving something hearty yet simple, and this dish seemed like a perfect fit. The first bite was magic—the combination of tangy tomatoes and creamy sauce danced across my taste buds. It quickly became a go-to recipe, especially on busy evenings when I craved comfort without a fuss. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy dinner party or just enjoying a quiet night in, this easy dinner recipe is a surefire hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 30 minutes, you can whip this dish up in under an hour.
Irresistible Flavor: The creamy tomato sauce, enhanced with vodka, delivers a unique and delicious flavor you won’t find in store-bought varieties.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Its vibrant red sauce and creamy finish make it as beautiful on the plate as it is tasty.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or a cozy family meal—this dish fits any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily made gluten-free by swapping the penne for gluten-free pasta, making it inclusive for different diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

12 oz penne pasta: The heart of the dish provides a great texture that holds the sauce well. Feel free to substitute with other short pasta like ziti or rigatoni if you prefer.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps sauté the onions and garlic, adding flavor right at the start of cooking. Use extra virgin olive oil for a richer taste.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Onions enhance the base of your sauce with sweetness and depth. Yellow onions are recommended for the perfect balance of flavor.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic gives a punch of flavor that makes the sauce aromatic and delicious. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to increase the amount!
28 oz crushed tomatoes: Use high-quality canned crushed tomatoes for a consistent sauce that provides rich flavor and texture.
1/2 cup vodka: This ingredient elevates the dish by adding a subtle brightness to the sauce. Don’t worry about the alcohol; it cooks off during preparation.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: These add just the right amount of warmth. Adjust according to your spice preference.
1/2 cup heavy cream: This makes the sauce luxuriously creamy. For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half, but the flavor may change slightly.
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Fresh cheese brings a depth of flavor that pre-grated options can’t match. Keep some extra on hand for serving.
Fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish): A fragrant finishing touch that brightens up the dish.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Always a must for enhancing flavors, use kosher salt for a cleaner taste.

How to Make Penne alla Vodka

Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, usually about 11-13 minutes, until it reaches al dente. Drain the pasta, but don’t forget to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water for later. This liquid will help adjust the sauce’s consistency perfectly.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step lays the flavor foundation of your sauce.

Simmer with Vodka: Carefully pour in the 1/2 cup of vodka, letting it simmer for about 3-5 minutes. You want to reduce it by half, which ensures it melds beautifully with the other ingredients without leaving a strong alcohol taste behind.

Add Tomatoes & Spice: Stir in 28 oz of crushed tomatoes and the 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 10-12 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening and deepening in flavor; this is key for that irresistible taste.

Creamy Finish: Lower the heat and slowly stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Keep mixing until the sauce transforms into a silky, smooth consistency. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This creamy finish is what makes the dish so delightful.

Combine Pasta & Sauce: Toss the cooked penne into the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Add some of that reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Finally, garnish with fresh torn basil leaves before serving. The aroma of basil will elevate your dish!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Penne alla Vodka, allow it to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it will last up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, the best method is on the stovetop over low heat; add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to refresh the sauce’s texture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid mushy pasta: Make sure to cook your penne just until al dente, as it will continue to cook when tossed with the hot sauce.
Quality ingredients matter: Using high-quality tomatoes and fresh cheese significantly enhances the sauce’s taste.
Experiment with herbs: Don’t hesitate to play around with herbs! Adding a pinch of oregano or thyme can give a unique twist to the flavor.
Make it spicy: Like a bit more heat? Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced fresh chili peppers to the sauce.
Shortcut options: If short on time, consider using jarred vodka sauce for a quick fix, but the homemade version is truly unbeatable.

There you have it! A delicious journey into making Penne alla Vodka, a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive. Whether you’re savoring it with friends or relishing in a quiet moment, this recipe will leave you smiling. Don’t be afraid to tweak it to fit your tastes, and remember to enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for Penne alla Vodka?

Absolutely! While penne is traditional, you can use any short pasta like fusilli or rigatoni. Each type captures the sauce differently, making it a delightful experience no matter the choice.

What can I substitute for vodka in the recipe?

If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can replace vodka with chicken broth or vegetable broth. While the flavor will change slightly, the dish will still be delicious.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat your sauce, add freshly cooked pasta, and enjoy!

How can I make Penne alla Vodka vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian, but to enhance flavor, opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if making substitutes. Additionally, adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can give it more substance.