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Penne alla Vodka

Penne alla Vodka is a creamy Italian pasta dish made with a rich tomato-vodka sauce blended with cream, garlic, and Parmesan. The vodka enhances the tomato flavor and balances the richness of the cream, creating a silky, luxurious sauce. Quick to prepare and restaurant-worthy, this pasta is perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
 
 

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup vodka
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped

Method
 

  1. Cook penne in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 30 seconds.
  3. Add crushed tomatoes, vodka, salt, and black pepper. Simmer 8–10 minutes to let flavors blend and alcohol cook off.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer another 2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Add cooked penne and toss until coated, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot with extra Parmesan.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 510kcalCarbohydrates: 63gProtein: 16gFat: 20g

Notes

For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half.
You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Pairs perfectly with garlic bread and a side salad.

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