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Best Easy Penne alla Vodka Recipe

Name: Best Easy Penne alla Vodka Recipe
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 300 g
Ingredients: penne pasta 12 oz; olive oil 2 tbsp; yellow onion 1 pieces; garlic 2 cloves; crushed tomatoes 1.5 cups; heavy cream 0.75 cup; Parmesan cheese 0.5 cup; vodka 0.25 cup; kosher salt 1 tsp; black pepper 0.25 tsp; red pepper flakes 0.5 tsp; fresh basil 0.25 cup

Creamy tomato sauce with a splash of vodka coats penne in this popular Italian-American crossover. A satisfying mediterranean family dinner that balances richness with tangy tomato freshness.

Cook 35 min Difficulty NORMAL 530 kcal

#mediterranean #vegetarian

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Ingredients

Main ingredients

penne pasta 12 oz
olive oil 2 tbsp
yellow onion 1 pieces
garlic 2 cloves
crushed tomatoes 1.5 cups
heavy cream 0.75 cup
Parmesan cheese 0.5 cup

Seasonings/Sauce

vodka 0.25 cup
kosher salt 1 tsp
black pepper 0.25 tsp
red pepper flakes 0.5 tsp
fresh basil 0.25 cup

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 69 g 52%

Protein 15 g 11%

Fat 20 g 34%

Serving size 300g

Cooking steps

1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne just to al dente, about 10 minutes; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
2

While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 minute.
3

Pour in the vodka and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to mostly evaporate. Adjust the heat to medium-low to prevent burning.
4

Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally so the flavors concentrate and excess moisture reduces.
5

Lower the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream gently to prevent curdling. Simmer 2 minutes, then add drained penne and half the Parmesan, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed for a creamy consistency.
6

Remove from heat, fold in fresh basil, and serve topped with remaining Parmesan.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?

The defining element is the combination of crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and a splash of vodka, which together create the creamy, slightly tangy sauce that sets Penne alla Vodka apart. The vodka works to blend the tomato and cream, enhancing the overall flavor.

Q. How do I prevent the cream from curdling in the sauce?

Keep the heat low when adding the heavy cream to the tomato-vodka mixture. Stir gently and avoid boiling after the cream is added. Adding cream on a gentle simmer lets it fully incorporate without splitting, which is essential for a smooth, creamy sauce.

Q. How many calories and how much protein are in each serving?

One serving contains 530 kcal, with 15g protein. Protein makes up about 11% of the dish’s calories, while carbohydrates contribute roughly 52%, and fat about 34%.

Q. Which ingredient most impacts the flavor and texture?

Heavy cream is the ingredient that most shapes both the velvety texture and the rich flavor profile of this dish. It balances the acidity of the tomatoes and melds with the vodka to build a signature creamy sauce.

Q. Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this Penne alla Vodka is vegetarian as it contains no meat, poultry, or seafood. All ingredients, including Parmesan cheese, olive oil, cream, tomatoes, and seasonings, adhere to a vegetarian diet.

Best Easy Penne alla Vodka Recipe

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