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Creamy Penne alla Vodka Pasta

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This creamy penne alla vodka pasta is a comforting Italian classic featuring a velvety tomato-vodka sauce, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Quick and easy to make, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/3 cup vodka
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until just al dente (9–11 minutes). Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and a pinch of salt; sauté until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in vodka, scraping up any brown bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to cook off alcohol and reduce slightly.
  5. Add crushed tomatoes. Stir, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let bubble gently for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes until sauce is blush-colored and slightly thickened.
  7. Add drained penne to the skillet, tossing gently to coat. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  8. Remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan until melted and creamy. Sprinkle in chopped basil and parsley.
  9. Serve immediately in bowls, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs. Optionally, drizzle with olive oil or add more red pepper flakes.

Notes

Salt pasta water generously for best flavor. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Add fresh herbs at the end for brightness. Sauce can be made ahead and stored; pasta is best served fresh. For gluten-free or vegan adaptations, see ingredient notes.

Nutrition

Keywords: penne alla vodka, creamy pasta, Italian dinner, easy pasta recipe, weeknight meal, vegetarian pasta, comfort food

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/creamy-penne-alla-vodka-pasta-recipe-easy-homemade-dinner/