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
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- 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.
- 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.
- Pour the vodka into the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol and concentrate the flavor.
- 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.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Add the drained pasta directly into the vodka cream sauce. Toss gently to coat every pasta piece evenly.
- 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.
- Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves.
- Serve immediately while hot, with additional Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
Tips
- Always use high-quality vodka for the best flavor. The alcohol cooks off, but it helps release flavors and creates depth in the sauce.
- Don't rush the garlic sautéing process. Those 30-45 seconds are crucial for developing a rich, aromatic base.
- Cook your pasta just until al dente—it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Reserved pasta water is your secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency. A little splash can help create the perfect creamy texture.
- Fresh basil isn't just a garnish—it adds a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce.
- For an extra luxurious touch, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged cheese.
- 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