Are you tired of your usual pasta dishes and looking for something to spice up your dinner routine? Look no further! Penne alla vodka is a creamy, delicious twist on classic pasta dishes. The good news is you don't have to be a professional chef to whip this up in your own kitchen. In this article, we'll show you how to make a delectable penne alla vodka using jar sauce. Say goodbye to your boring pasta nights and hello to a restaurant-worthy dish that's sure to impress your taste buds and your friends.
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How To Make Penne Alla Vodka With Jar Sauce Table of Contents
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What is Penne Alla Vodka?
Penne alla vodka is an Italian-American dish that features penne pasta cooked in a creamy tomato sauce infused with vodka. The alcohol in the vodka enhances the flavors of the sauce, giving it a unique and delicious taste. Although the origin of this dish is uncertain, it is widely believed to have been created in the United States around the 1980s.
Ingredients You'll Need
To make penne alla vodka with jar sauce, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb of penne pasta
- 1 jar of store-bought vodka sauce (about 24 oz)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnishing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this tasty penne alla vodka dish is easier than you think. Just follow these simple steps, and you'll have a gourmet pasta meal on your table in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain pasta and set aside. Make sure to reserve around 1 cup of pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Prepare the Vodka Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add in the diced onion. Cook until the onions become soft and translucent, around 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, making sure not to burn it.
- Pour your jar of store-bought vodka sauce into the skillet, stirring it well with the onions and garlic.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for around 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add Cream, Cheese, and Seasonings
- Slowly add the heavy cream into the skillet while stirring continuously to keep the sauce homogeneous.
- Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and add crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of a kick.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the vodka sauce and gently toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Allow the pasta and sauce to cook together for 2-3 minutes, so the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Plate your penne alla vodka and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Enjoy your delicious, restaurant-quality pasta dish!
How To Make Penne Alla Vodka With Jar Sauce Example:
An excellent example of store-bought vodka sauce for this recipe is Rao's Homemade Vodka Sauce. It features a delightful mix of tomatoes, Parmesan and Romano cheeses, onions, garlic, and high-quality vodka. When combined with your cooked penne pasta and the additional ingredients listed above, you're sure to create a dish that rivals even the best Italian restaurants. Don't forget to garnish with some fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any brand of jar sauce for penne alla vodka?
Yes, you can use any brand of jarred tomato sauce that you prefer. However, some brands might have a specific flavor profile that can influence the final taste of your dish.
What type of cream is best for penne alla vodka?
Heavy cream is typically used in penne alla vodka for its richness and ability to create a thick, luxurious sauce. You could use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce won't be as creamy.
Is penne alla vodka with jar sauce kid-friendly?
While the recipe includes vodka, most of the alcohol cooks off during the preparation, leaving the flavor without the alcohol content. However, if serving to children, please ensure that it is cooked thoroughly to ensure the alcohol is evaporated.
How can I make a gluten-free version of penne alla vodka?
To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free penne pasta and ensure that your jar sauce and other ingredients do not contain gluten.
Can I make penne alla vodka without alcohol?
Yes, you can omit the vodka or replace it with chicken or vegetable broth for the liquid component, although the unique flavor the vodka imparts will be missing.
What can I substitute for vodka in this recipe?
If you'd rather not use vodka, try substituting it with white wine, vermouth, or even chicken broth for a non-alcoholic variation; keep in mind that each will alter the taste slightly.
How can I thicken the sauce if it's too thin?
If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a bit longer to reduce. You can also mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the sauce, stirring well.
Can I add meat to my penne alla vodka?
Certainly! Adding cooked pancetta, bacon, or chorizo can give your penne alla vodka a smoky flavor. For a lighter option, grilled chicken strips are also delicious.
How can I make my penne alla vodka spicier?
To add spice, include red pepper flakes to your taste when cooking. You can also dice a small amount of fresh chili and cook it with the sauce.
What type of penne is best to use?
Traditional penne rigate, with its ridges, is ideal for clinging to the creamy sauce. You can also use penne lisce (smooth penne), though it holds less sauce.
How do I prevent the cream from curdling in the sauce?
Always heat the cream gently and try not to let it boil. It's also helpful to add the cream to the sauce off the heat, gradually heating it up together.
Can I prepare penne alla vodka ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stove while stirring frequently to prevent separation. It's best served fresh, though.
How much sauce do I need for a pound of pasta?
A general rule of thumb is to use about 24 ounces of jar sauce for every pound of pasta. Adjust according to how saucy you prefer your pasta.
Is penne alla vodka suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, penne alla vodka can be suitable for vegetarians as long as you ensure the jar sauce and all other ingredients are free of meat or meat by-products.
How do I store leftover penne alla vodka?
Leftover penne alla vodka should be cooled to room temperature, placed in an airtight container, and then stored in the refrigerator. It typically keeps well for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze penne alla vodka?
You can freeze penne alla vodka, though the cream sauce may separate slightly when thawed. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, transfer to an airtight container, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
What can I serve with penne alla vodka to make a complete meal?
Penne alla vodka pairs well with a green salad, a slice of crusty garlic bread, or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus to create a balanced meal.
Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream?
Light cream or half-and-half can be used as a substitute for heavy cream if you're looking to cut down on fat. However, the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
Is it possible to make a dairy-free version of penne alla vodka?
Yes, to make a dairy-free version, you can use full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative. Keep in mind the flavor profile might change slightly when using these substitutions.
How can I incorporate more vegetables into this dish?
You can easily add vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes by sautéing and mixing them into the sauce before adding the pasta.
Should I rinse the pasta after cooking for penne alla vodka?
It's not recommended to rinse pasta when making penne alla vodka because the starch on the surface of the pasta helps the sauce adhere better. Only rinse pasta if you plan to use it in a cold dish.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of jar sauce for penne alla vodka?
While this recipe is focused on using a jar sauce for convenience, you certainly can use fresh tomatoes, though you would need to cook them down into a sauce, which would add to the preparation time.
Congratulations, you've just learned how to make mouth-watering penne alla vodka with jar sauce! This dish is genuinely unique and delicious, guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Don't hesitate to share this article with fellow pasta enthusiasts and explore other fantastic vodka-based guides on Vodka Doctors. Who knows, you might just find your next favorite recipe or vodka cocktail!
