Penne alla Vodka is the rockstar of comfort food. It’s luscious, creamy, and just the right amount of indulgent. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a date night dish ready to impress, this is one recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again. It’s easy enough for beginner cooks but fancy enough to feel like you’ve whipped it up in a trattoria. Plus—with pasta, tomato, and a splash of vodka involved—it’s basically impossible to resist.
Today, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to make this dish a showstopper. From simple ingredients (many of which may already be in your pantry) to tips that’ll take your Penne alla Vodka to the next level, I’ve got your back.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Penne alla Vodka is its simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients to create something magical. Here’s what you’ll need to get started, plus some swaps in case you’re missing a few items.
The Essentials
- Penne pasta (12 oz): The star of the show! Feel free to swap with rigatoni or ziti if needed.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness to your dish.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): For that velvety finish.
- Onion (1 small, finely diced): Brings sweetness and depth.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Because all good pasta dishes start with garlic.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz): Or substitute with whole peeled tomatoes and crush them by hand for a chunkier texture.
- Vodka (1/3 cup): Essential for that authentic zing. Don’t worry, the alcohol cooks off! Sub with chicken broth if you’d rather skip it.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): For that dreamy, creamy texture. (Half-and-half works too.)
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, freshly grated): Adds salty, nutty magic.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp): A little heat goes a long way.
- Salt & black pepper: Season to taste.
Optional Add-Ons
- Fresh basil (for garnish): Adds a burst of fresh, herby brightness.
- Pancetta (4 oz, diced): Want to add a smoky twist? Crisp up some pancetta and toss it in!
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking Penne alla Vodka is as enjoyable as eating it. And the best part? It all comes together in under 30 minutes.
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente (firm but not mushy). Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Toss in the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Vodka
Pour in the canned tomatoes, crushing any large chunks with a wooden spoon. Stir in the vodka and simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to reduce and allow the alcohol to cook off.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce turns a dreamy shade of pink. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated.
Step 5: Combine and Toss
Add the cooked penne to the skillet, gently tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce. Use reserved pasta water (a few tablespoons at a time) to adjust the consistency if needed.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan for presentation, and you’re ready to dig in!
Tips and Tricks for the Best Penne alla Vodka
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, so stick with freshly grated for the best results.
- Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: The starchiness of the reserved water helps bind the sauce to your pasta beautifully.
- Go Slow with Heat: Heavy cream can curdle if added to a very hot pan. Turn down the heat and stir gently as you mix it in.
- Leftovers? No Problem! Store your Penne alla Vodka in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Penne alla Vodka is a star on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can take the meal to the next level. Here are some recommendations to round out your dinner table.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up that incredible sauce.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh, tangy salad balances the richness of the pasta.
- Grilled Vegetables: Sweet and smoky zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers pair wonderfully.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti complements the flavors nicely.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Penne alla Vodka strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and gourmet dining. It’s indulgent without being too heavy, simple yet sophisticated, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s your first time making it or your hundredth, there’s something magical about watching humble ingredients transform into something extraordinary.
Now that you’ve mastered the recipe, what are you waiting for? Grab your pasta pot and get cooking!
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