Introduction

Penne alla Vodka is a luxurious and indulgent pasta dish that combines the comforting flavors of a rich tomato sauce with the subtle warmth of vodka and the creaminess of heavy cream. This Italian-American classic strikes the perfect balance between tangy tomatoes, smooth cream, and a hint of alcohol that enhances the sauce’s depth without overpowering it. The penne pasta holds the sauce beautifully in its tubes, making each bite rich and satisfying. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s creamy, flavorful, and simple to make, yet feels like a restaurant-quality dish. The vodka enhances the tomato flavor, giving it a slightly tangy, aromatic undertone, while the cream adds a luscious texture that coats the pasta perfectly. It’s indulgent without being overly heavy and comes together quickly, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and entertaining guests.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Penne alla Vodka is a must-try because it transforms simple pantry ingredients into a decadent, creamy pasta dish. Its unique flavor profile—tomato, cream, and vodka—offers something different from standard tomato sauces. It’s a crowd-pleaser, elegant enough for dinner parties yet comforting enough for a cozy night in. The versatility of this sauce also allows it to pair well with vegetables, shrimp, or chicken for added variety.

Recipe Info

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~520 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Course: Main Course

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 60 ml (¼ cup) vodka
• 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream
• ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional for mild heat)
• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity, optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

For the Pasta:

• 400 g (14 oz) penne pasta
• Salt, for pasta water

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook penne in salted boiling water until al dente.
2. Heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
3. Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. Simmer 10 minutes.
4. Add vodka, simmer 5 minutes to cook off alcohol.
5. Stir in cream, chili flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
6. Toss cooked penne with sauce.
7. Serve garnished with basil and Parmesan.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
   Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Tomato Paste & Crushed Tomatoes:
   Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor. Add 400 g canned crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
4. Add Vodka:
   Pour in 60 ml vodka and stir. Simmer for 5 minutes to cook off alcohol, leaving behind a subtle warmth that enhances the tomato flavor.
5. Add Cream & Seasonings:
   Lower heat to medium-low. Stir in ½ cup heavy cream, red chili flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and slightly thickened.
6. Combine Pasta & Sauce:
   Add cooked penne to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta thoroughly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Serve:
   Plate the pasta, garnish with freshly chopped basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in shallow bowls for maximum sauce coverage.
• Pair with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of crisp white wine for a complete meal.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use good-quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Don’t skip the vodka—it enhances the flavor but cooks off the alcohol.
• Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
• For added depth, sauté finely diced pancetta with the onions.

Variations

• Seafood: Add cooked shrimp or scallops for a luxurious twist.
• Vegetarian: Include roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Spicy: Increase red chili flakes or add a dash of hot paprika.
• Cheesy: Mix in shredded mozzarella for an extra creamy texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooled sauce in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or pasta water if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Heavy-bottomed pot for cooking pasta
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Colander for draining pasta

FAQ

Q1: Can I skip vodka?
A: Yes, but the vodka adds subtle depth and enhances the tomato flavor. Substitute with a splash of white wine or extra cream if desired.

Q2: Can I use fresh tomatoes?
A: Yes, peel, chop, and simmer them longer until they break down into a sauce.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, the sauce can be made a day ahead. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

Q4: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes, penne is traditional, but rigatoni, farfalle, or fusilli work well.

Q5: How can I make it lighter?
A: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reduce the cream by half and add a bit of pasta water to maintain texture.

Conclusion

Penne alla Vodka with Creamy Tomato Sauce is a perfect balance of elegance and comfort. Its rich, creamy sauce and subtle vodka flavor elevate simple ingredients into a sophisticated dish that everyone will love. Quick to make yet full of depth, this pasta is ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or entertaining guests. With its creamy texture, bright tomato flavor, and versatility, it’s a must-have recipe in your pasta repertoire.