Garlic Penne alla Vodka Recipe
This dish isn’t for vampires, weak taste buds, or anyone afraid of flavor. The garlic does the heavy lifting, making sure every bite packs a punch. Vodka steps in, cutting through the richness like a smooth operator. The creamy tomato sauce hugs each pasta piece, creating a perfect bite every time. It’s indulgent, bold, and absolutely unapologetic. If your breath isn’t questionable after eating this, you didn’t add enough garlic. Make it, enjoy it, and embrace your garlicky fate.

Garlic Penne alla Vodka Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 6 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 the garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant.
- Deglaze with vodka: Pour in vodka and let it simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol.
- Add tomatoes: Stir in crushed tomatoes and let the sauce cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Make it creamy: Reduce heat and pour in heavy cream, stirring until well combined.
- Finish the sauce: Add butter, Parmesan, and a splash of pasta water. Stir until smooth.
- Combine with pasta: Toss in the drained penne and coat evenly with the sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Top with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 530
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 59g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
Vitamin & Mineral Content (Per Serving)
- Calcium: 19%
- Iron: 11%
- Vitamin A: 14%
- Potassium: 10%
- Magnesium: 8%
Flavor-Boosting Tips
- Roast the garlic for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Use high-quality vodka for a smoother sauce.
- Add extra Parmesan for more richness.
- A pinch of sugar balances acidity if needed.