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Penne alla Vodka Pasta with Vodka Cream Sauce

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Penne alla Vodka Pasta with Vodka Cream Sauce

Imagine a creamy, luxurious pasta dish that combines the rich depths of tomato sauce, the smooth elegance of vodka, and the irresistible comfort of perfectly cooked penne. Penne alla Vodka isn't just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece right in your own kitchen. Whether you're looking to impress a date, treat yourself to a gourmet dinner, or simply indulge in the most decadent pasta you've ever tasted, this recipe is your golden ticket to pasta perfection.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 12 oz penne pasta
  2. 1/4 cup vodka
  3. 1 cup heavy cream
  4. 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  5. 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  6. 2 tbsp olive oil
  7. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  8. Salt and pepper to taste
  9. Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
  4. Pour the vodka into the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol and concentrate the flavor.
  5. Add tomato sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the vodka and garlic. Reduce heat to low-medium and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  6. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency.
  8. Add the drained pasta directly into the vodka cream sauce. Toss gently to coat every pasta piece evenly.
  9. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix well. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  10. Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves.
  11. Serve immediately while hot, with additional Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

Tips

  1. Always use high-quality vodka for the best flavor. The alcohol cooks off, but it helps release flavors and creates depth in the sauce.
  2. Don't rush the garlic sautéing process. Those 30-45 seconds are crucial for developing a rich, aromatic base.
  3. Cook your pasta just until al dente—it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
  4. Reserved pasta water is your secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency. A little splash can help create the perfect creamy texture.
  5. Fresh basil isn't just a garnish—it adds a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce.
  6. For an extra luxurious touch, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged cheese.
  7. Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest and the pasta at its most tender.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 550kcal

Carbohydrates: 45g

Protein: 15g

Fat: 32g

Saturated Fat: 18g

Cholesterol: 95mg

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