Penne with Vodka
A delightful blend of creamy and tangy flavors, Penne with Vodka is a comforting Italian dish ideal for weeknight dinners and special gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 12 oz Penne pasta Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- 1 cup Tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup Vodka Can be substituted with white wine or omitted.
- 1 cup Heavy cream Can use half-and-half for a lighter option.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated For serving, use freshly grated for best flavor.
- to taste Fresh basil Optional for serving.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta and Making Sauce
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.
- Pour in vodka and let it simmer for a few minutes until reduced by half.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Lower the heat and add heavy cream, stirring until well blended.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
Notes
For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. For a vegetarian option, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently, adding cream or water if needed.