Description
A comforting classic, this Penne with Vodka offers creamy richness with a tangy tomato flavor, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 sweet onion (finely diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (plus more for garnish)
- 28-ounce can San Marzano whole tomatoes
- 1/3 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Basil leaves (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, reserving some pasta water.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the diced sweet onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes; stir until fragrant.
- Blend the San Marzano tomatoes until smooth and pour into the onion and garlic mixture, adding vodka. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt while simmering for 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine, and add reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Serve immediately, garnished with more parmesan, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil.
Notes
Store leftover Penne with Vodka in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of cream if needed. For make-ahead, prepare the vodka sauce in advance; cook pasta fresh when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg