Penne with Vodka Sauce and Bacon

Ingredients

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1/4 cup bacon, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the penne and cook according to the package directions.
2. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the vodka and simmer until the liquid is almost completely evaporated, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce is creamy, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the cooked penne and bacon to the sauce and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve in individual bowls topped with chopped parsley.

Interesting Facts

• The vodka in the sauce helps to cut the acidity of the tomatoes and make the sauce creamy.
• Penne is a type of pasta that is shaped like tubes and is perfect for absorbing sauces.
• This dish is a classic Italian-American dish that is often served in Italian restaurants.