Indulge in this classic Italian-American dish of Penne a la Vodka. This recipe combines perfectly cooked penne pasta with a rich and creamy tomato vodka sauce. The addition of vodka elevates the flavors and gives the sauce a unique and sophisticated taste. This is a perfect dish for any occasion and can be enjoyed by the whole family. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality pasta dish right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- Penne pasta - 1 pound
- Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
- Butter - 2 tablespoons
- Onion - 1, finely chopped
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Crushed red pepper flakes - 1/2 teaspoon
- Tomato paste - 1/4 cup
- Vodka - 1/2 cup
- Tomato sauce - 2 cups
- Heavy cream - 1 cup
- Salt - to taste
- Black pepper - to taste
- Parmesan cheese - for serving
- Fresh basil - for garnish
Directions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in the vodka and cook until the liquid has reduced by half.
- Add the tomato sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
- Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until it is fully coated with the creamy tomato vodka sauce.
- Serve the Penne a la Vodka hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and torn basil leaves.
