Classic Penne a la Vodka Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 pound of penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 cup of vodka
  • 1 can of crushed tomatoes (28 ounces)
  • 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 cup of fresh basil, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, saute until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Pour in the vodka, be careful as it may flame. Let it reduce by half.
  4. Add the crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes or until it thickens.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce cook for a few more minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
  6. Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta in the sauce.
  7. Season with salt and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add cooked pancetta or bacon for a meaty twist.
  • Replace the penne pasta with your favorite pasta shape, such as rigatoni or fusilli.
  • For a spicy kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
  • Include sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
  • Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • Add cooked shrimp or chicken to make it a protein-packed meal.
  • Incorporate roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth of flavor.
  • For a vegetarian option, omit the pancetta and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano instead of basil.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese, such as creamy goat cheese or sharp cheddar.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the rich flavors of Penne a la Vodka, a comforting Italian dish that combines al dente penne pasta with a creamy tomato and vodka sauce. This recipe brings together the sweetness of tomatoes and onions with the sharp kick of red pepper flakes and garlic, all mellowed down by the richness of cream and Parmesan cheese. The addition of vodka adds depth and complexity to the sauce, making this dish truly special. Whether you're entertaining guests or having a quiet dinner at home, this Penne a la Vodka recipe is sure to impress. Expect to spend around 45 minutes preparing and cooking this hearty meal. Bon appétit!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. However, penne pasta works best with this recipe as its shape helps hold the sauce.
  2. Can I omit the vodka? If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can omit the vodka. However, it does add a unique flavor to the dish.
  3. Can I use a different type of cheese? While Parmesan cheese is traditionally used in this recipe, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
  4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, this recipe can be made vegetarian by ensuring that the cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly and checking the ingredients in the crushed tomatoes to ensure they are vegetarian.
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the sauce and cook the pasta before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Despite its Italian sounding name, Penne alla Vodka is a dish that is largely American. While its true origins remain a mystery, it's believed to have been invented in the United States during the 1980s. Some theories suggest it was a clever marketing ploy by vodka companies looking to increase sales. Others believe it was a natural evolution of tomato-cream sauces popular in Italian-American cuisine. Regardless of its true beginnings, Penne alla Vodka has become a beloved staple in Italian-American restaurants. Its creamy, slightly spicy tomato sauce, spiked with a generous dose of vodka and tossed with al dente penne, has won over the hearts of pasta lovers across the globe.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.