Penne alla Vodka
Experience the indulgent flavors of Italy with Penne alla Vodka, a rich and creamy pasta dish that perfectly balances vibrant tomato, velvety cream, and a subtle kick of vodka. This iconic recipe features tender penne pasta coated in a luscious sauce made with sautéed shallots and garlic, a hint of crushed red pepper for gentle heat, and a touch of vodka to enhance the flavors. The addition of heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese gives the dish its irresistibly smooth texture, while fresh basil adds a final burst of herbal brightness. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Penne alla Vodka is a crowd-pleaser that's ready in just 40 minutes, making it both quick and satisfying. Serve it hot with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a restaurant-quality meal at home! Target keywords: "Penne alla Vodka recipe," "creamy vodka pasta," "easy Italian pasta dishes."
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 small shallots
- 3 cloves garlic
- 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.75 cup vodka
- 1 cup tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 quarts water
- 2 tbsp salt for cooking pasta
Instructions
Bring 3 quarts of salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, finely chop the shallots and garlic cloves.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter melts, add the chopped shallots and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent.
Add the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet, cooking for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
Carefully add the vodka to the skillet, simmering for 2-3 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to combine well with the shallot and garlic mixture.
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the penne thoroughly with the sauce.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, season with salt and black pepper, and mix until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well combined with the sauce.
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with freshly torn basil leaves before serving.
Serve hot, topped with additional grated Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
690 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 39.5 g | 51% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.3 g | 106% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 95 mg | 32% | |
| Sodium | 3964 mg | 172% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 39.5 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.0 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.1 g | ||
| Protein | 16.2 g | 32% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 336 mg | 26% | |
| Iron | 2.0 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 517 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
