Are you tired of the same old pasta sauce options and looking for a new way to spice up your dinners? Look no further than this delicious and easy-to-make penne vodka sauce recipe! You’ll turn an ordinary pasta night into an extraordinary one with this creamy, flavorful sauce that's sure to impress everyone at the table. As part of our comprehensive vodka guide series at Vodka Doctors, we're diving into vodka's versatility beyond just cocktails to bring you one of the most loved pasta dishes in Italian cuisine. So grab your favorite vodka and let's get cooking!
How To Make Penne Vodka Sauce Table of Contents
Ingredients You'll Need:
To create this delicious penne vodka sauce, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb Penne pasta
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 small Onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Vodka (choose a good-quality vodka for a better tasting sauce)
- 1 28-ounce can Crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Step By Step Instructions:
Creating the penne vodka sauce is incredibly easy! Just follow these step-by-step instructions:
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- Prepare the pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use, then drain pasta and set aside.
- Make the vodka sauce: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once heated, add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and softened. Add the minced garlic, stirring constantly to avoid burning, and cook for another minute.
- Add vodka and tomatoes: Carefully pour the vodka into the skillet with the onion and garlic mixture. Allow the vodka to simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the alcohol reduce. Add the crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet, stirring until well combined. Allow the mixture to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cream and cheese: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken. Add the grated Parmesan, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the vodka sauce, tossing until the pasta is fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out as needed.
Serving Suggestions:
This penne vodka sauce is delicious as-is, but you can also customize it to your preferences! Consider adding some of these toppings or mix-ins:
- Grilled or sautéed chicken, shrimp, or sausage
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms
- Additional Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top
How To Make Penne Vodka Sauce Example:
When you make this penne vodka sauce, you'll find that the savory blend of garlic, onions, tomatoes, and vodka mixed with rich and velvety cream creates a truly unforgettable dining experience. Whether you keep it simple and pair it with your favorite protein or load it up with an array of veggies, this versatile recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!
Sample Recipe Image:
In conclusion, penne vodka sauce is a delicious and surprisingly easy to make dish that is sure to become a favorite in your home. Thank you for discovering this recipe with us at Vodka Doctors! If you enjoyed these delectable culinary delights with vodka, be sure to explore our other articles and vodka guides. Please share our how-to guide on penne vodka sauce with your friends and family as well - nothing brings people together quite like sharing the love of good food and great vodka! Cheers!
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Elevate your vodka obsession with the Vodka Is My Element t-shirt. It pays homage to the most iconic vodka brands, from Ketel One to Grey Goose and Absolut. Crafted with passion and designed for true enthusiasts, this shirt lets you wear your dedication proudly.
