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Quick Creamy Penne alla Vodka

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A rich and creamy penne alla vodka recipe that comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. The sauce is velvety with a subtle vodka kick, making it comforting and satisfying without complicated ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup vodka
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Pour in 1/4 cup vodka carefully. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and cook off the alcohol.
  4. Add 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato puree. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly and deepens in color.
  5. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Mix until the sauce turns a pale pink and creamy. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  6. Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce seems too thick.
  7. Turn off the heat and sprinkle 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Toss again until the cheese melts into the sauce.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness. Let the vodka simmer to cook off alcohol and enhance flavor. Add reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: penne alla vodka, creamy pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, vodka sauce, weeknight dinner, creamy penne

Find it online: https://bouncybowl.com/quick-creamy-penne-alla-vodka-recipe-20-minute-easy-dinner-idea/