Name: Creamy Vodka Penne: Favorite Weeknight Dinner!
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 500 g / 1 lb penne or ziti; 2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt; 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 small onion, finely diced; 2 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1/2 cup (140g / 4.5 oz) tomato paste; 1 1/4 cups heavy cream; 1/3 cup vodka; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 3/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt

Vodka penne is a classic Italian-American dish that has taken the internet by storm, and for good reason! This creamy, dreamy pasta is surprisingly simple to make, featuring a rich tomato cream sauce with a subtle kick from vodka and a comforting blend of garlic, onion, and Parmesan. Perfect for a weeknight treat or a casual dinner party, vodka penne delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. This recipe focuses on creating a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the penne, ensuring every bite is a delightful balance of savory, creamy, and slightly tangy notes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find this vodka penne recipe foolproof and incredibly rewarding.

⏱ Time: 15 min

👥 Servings: 4-6

📊 Level: Easy

🥗 10 ingredients

Creamy Vodka Penne: Favorite Weeknight Dinner!

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Cook Time 15

Total Time 15

Servings: 6

Calories: 550

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

500 g / 1 lb penne or ziti
2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 small onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1/2 cup (140g / 4.5 oz) tomato paste
1 1/4 cups heavy cream
1/3 cup vodka
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
3/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt

Method

Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 2 tsp salt and pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente.
Reserve pasta water: Before draining, scoop out about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic, cook for 1.5 minutes until translucent.
Cook tomato paste: Add tomato paste to the pot. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until it darkens in color. Lower heat if it starts to catch.
Simmer sauce: Stir in heavy cream, red pepper flakes, 3/4 tsp salt, and vodka. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combine and serve: Turn off heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Add drained pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency. Serve immediately.

Notes

– Use good quality tomato paste for the deepest flavor.
– Don’t skip reserving the pasta water; it’s key to emulsifying the sauce.
– For an alcohol-free version, substitute chicken broth or extra cream for the vodka.
– Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables for a heartier meal.

Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

Pro tips

Use good quality tomato paste for the deepest flavor.
Don’t skip reserving the pasta water; it’s key to emulsifying the sauce.
For an alcohol-free version, substitute chicken broth or extra cream for the vodka.
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables for a heartier meal.

Enjoy this vibrant and comforting vodka penne, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of Italian-American flair to your table.

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