Chef John's Penne with Vodka Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 shallot, minced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup vodka
• 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente, about 8 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic and cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the vodka and cook until it is almost completely evaporated, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the tomatoes and red pepper flakes and bring to a simmer. Simmer until the sauce is thickened, about 10 minutes.
5. Add the cream and Parmesan and stir until the cheese is melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce. Toss until the pasta is coated with the sauce.
7. Serve with the chopped parsley as a garnish.

Interesting Facts

• Vodka is added to the sauce to help bring out the flavors of the tomatoes.
• The red pepper flakes add a nice kick of heat to the sauce.
• This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.