Creamy and flavorful Penne Russo a la Vodka

5 stars
4.88 (16)
Creamy and flavorful Penne Russo a la Vodka
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
65mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on May 08, 2024

Penne Russo a la Vodka is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender penne pasta with a creamy vodka sauce. This dish is perfect for a fancy dinner party or a cozy night in. The combination of tomatoes, cream, and vodka creates a velvety sauce that coats each bite of pasta in a luscious, flavorful coating.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup vodka
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

  1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
  3. Add vodka to the skillet and let it simmer for a few minutes to cook off the alcohol.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
  5. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with the sauce.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Interesting Facts

  • Vodka sauce is believed to have originated in the 1970s in Italian-American restaurants in the United States.
  • Despite the name, vodka sauce does not taste strongly of alcohol, as the vodka evaporates during cooking, leaving behind a subtle flavor enhancement.