Penne Alla Vodka

Traditionally with penne as the pasta and the red sauce is made with tomatoes, cream, pancetta or bacon, and vodka. It is largely an American dish that has authentic Italian touches. Original Source

Nutrition Facts 1/6th of Pasta: 489 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 516mg sodium, 557g Potassium, 14g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein.

Yields Prep Time Total Time
6 10 Minutes 50 Minutes

Ingredients

  • 16 oz penne pasta

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 1 sweet onion (finely diced)

  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (plus more for garnish)

  • 28 oz can San Marzano whole tomatoes

  • 1/3 c. vodka

  • 1 c. heavy cream

  • 1 c. grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Basil leaves (for serving)

Directions

  • Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions, aiming for al-dente.

  • In the meantime, prepare the Vodka Sauce.

  • Place a large pan over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook while stirring for 2-3 minutes.

  • Add the garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds.

  • Add the tomatoes to a blender or a food processor and puree until smooth. Add the tomato puree to the pan, followed by the vodka. Simmer the sauce for 20 minutes over medium-low heat.

  • Stir in the heavy cream until fully combined and finally add the parmesan cheese, simmer the sauce for another 5 minutes or until thickened. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

  • Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the sauce, toss to coat.

  • Serve sprinkled with parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes and garnished with basil leaves.