Penne alla Vodka is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish with a rich tomato-based sauce, a hint of vodka, and a touch of spice. Here’s a simple recipe to make this Italian-American classic:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Vodka:
- Pour in the vodka and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld.
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, letting it simmer for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss it with the sauce until fully coated.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and more Parmesan, if desired.
Tips:
- Make it extra creamy: Add an extra splash of heavy cream for an even richer sauce.
- Protein: You can add cooked Italian sausage or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- No vodka?: If you prefer to skip the vodka, you can substitute it with chicken broth or leave it out entirely—though the vodka helps emulsify the sauce and gives it a subtle sharpness.
Penne alla Vodka is a rich and indulgent dish that balances the creaminess of the sauce with the slight tang of tomatoes and vodka. Let me know if you’d like to adjust anything in the recipe!