Description
A fast, one-pot creamy vodka penne that comes together in 20 minutes using pantry staples. The vodka releases tomato flavors for a rich, silky sauce that clings perfectly to ridged pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons vodka
- 1 pound penne rigate
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 handful fresh basil, torn
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, salt generously, and bring to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta cooks, heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened (2-3 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 3-4 minutes to concentrate flavor.
- Add vodka and simmer for 2 minutes to cook off alcohol. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately topped with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Notes
Use penne rigate (ridged) for better sauce adherence. Always grate your own Parmesan to avoid grainy sauce. Save pasta water; the starch helps emulsify the sauce. Do not freeze this dish as the dairy sauce will separate upon thawing.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 52
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 14
Keywords: creamy vodka penne, weeknight dinner, easy pasta, one pot meal, Italian pasta, vodka sauce, quick dinner