Description
A rich and creamy Penne Alla Vodka dish featuring a classic pink sauce made with tomatoes, heavy cream, and a hint of vodka, finished with Parmesan and fresh basil. This easy recipe is ready in 40 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup vodka (optional, or use chicken broth)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- If using vodka, carefully add it to the skillet and let it simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve the Penne Alla Vodka immediately, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
- For an alcohol-free version, substitute chicken broth for the vodka.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
- A pinch of sugar can be added to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Parmesan cheese can be omitted for a dairy-free option, though it will alter the texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg