Name: Penne alla Vodka with Tomato Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; ½ cup vodka; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; ¾ cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

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Hey y'all! Ready to whip up something creamy, comforting, and downright irresistible? This Penne alla Vodka with Tomato Cream Sauce is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights, cozy date nights, or when you just want to treat yourself. With its luscious, velvety sauce and a hint of vodka warmth, every bite feels like a hug in a bowl. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Penne alla Vodka with Tomato Cream Sauce

Creamy texture and tangy tomato flavor come together for the perfect comfort food.
Ready in just 30 minutes, making it weeknight-friendly and stress-free.

Easy to customize with proteins or veggies you love.
Impressive enough for guests, but simple enough for beginners.
It reheats beautifully, so leftovers taste just as amazing!

Ingredients for Penne alla Vodka with Tomato Cream Sauce

12 oz (340g) penne pasta
2 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
½ cup (120ml) vodka

1 can (28 oz/800g) crushed tomatoes
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
½ cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Directions: How to Make Penne alla Vodka with Tomato Cream Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add penne and cook according to package instructions (usually 10-11 minutes) until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics for Tomato Cream Sauce

While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Vodka and Tomatoes

Pour in vodka and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.

Add crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer.
Simmer the sauce for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Finish the Tomato Cream Sauce

Reduce heat to low, then stir in heavy cream until sauce is smooth and creamy.

Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked penne to the sauce and toss to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot!

Notes: Expert Tips for Penne alla Vodka with Tomato Cream Sauce

Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for the richest flavor. Learn more about choosing tomatoes.
Let the vodka cook off fully—this ensures the sauce is smooth, with no harsh alcohol flavor.

You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be as rich.

Variations: Creative Twists on Penne alla Vodka

Spicy Penne alla Vodka: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a fiery kick.
Penne alla Vodka with Chicken: Stir in cooked, sliced chicken breast for extra protein.

Vegetarian Penne alla Vodka: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for veggie goodness.

Required Equipment for Penne alla Vodka with Tomato Cream Sauce

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet or sauté pan

Wooden spoon or spatula
Colander
Measuring cups and spoons

Box grater (for Parmesan)

Storage Instructions for Penne alla Vodka with Tomato Cream Sauce

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in Italian vinaigrette.
Pair with crusty garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the extra sauce.

A glass of Pinot Grigio or Chianti complements the creamy-tomato flavors perfectly.

Pro Tips for the Best Penne alla Vodka with Tomato Cream Sauce

Always reserve some pasta water; its starchiness helps the sauce cling to the penne. Here's why pasta water matters.
For the best texture, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded.

Simmer the sauce gently after adding the cream to prevent curdling—patience pays off!

FAQ: Penne alla Vodka with Tomato Cream Sauce

Can I make Penne alla Vodka without vodka?

Yes! Simply substitute with a splash of water or broth—though the vodka does add a unique depth to the sauce.

Is this dish safe for kids?

Absolutely! The alcohol cooks off during simmering, leaving only flavor behind. For more about cooking with alcohol, check this resource.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Of course! Rigatoni, fusilli, or ziti all work well with this luscious tomato cream sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

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Penne alla Vodka with Tomato Cream Sauce