Creamy Penne alla Vodka Recipe
This dish is unapologetically rich, indulgent, and dangerously easy to make. The velvety tomato sauce, kissed with vodka, wraps each pasta piece like a warm hug. Heavy cream swoops in to smooth things out, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth. It’s comfort food with a slight rebellious streak—because adding booze to dinner is always a good idea. Whether you’re impressing guests or just avoiding another sad meal, this recipe delivers. Pair it with garlic bread, a glass of wine, and zero regrets.
Creamy Penne alla Vodka Recipe
A luxuriously creamy vodka-infused pasta perfect for indulgence.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- ¼ cup vodka
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant.
- Add vodka: Pour in vodka and let it simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol.
- Stir in tomatoes: Mix in crushed tomatoes and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Make it creamy: Reduce heat and add heavy cream, stirring until fully combined.
- Finish the sauce: Toss in butter, Parmesan, and reserved pasta water. Stir until smooth.
- Coat the pasta: Add cooked penne and mix until coated in sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh basil and extra Parmesan on top.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520
- Total Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
Vitamin & Mineral Content (Per Serving)
- Calcium: 18%
- Iron: 10%
- Vitamin A: 12%
- Potassium: 9%
- Magnesium: 7%
Flavor-Boosting Tips
- Use premium vodka for better depth of flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer longer for a richer taste.
- Add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.
- Stir in extra Parmesan for an even creamier texture.
