Creamy Penne Alla Vodka

Creamy Penne Alla Vodka is a luxurious Italian-American pasta dish made with a silky tomato-vodka sauce, enriched with cream and finished with grated cheese and herbs. This restaurant-quality recipe is a perfect blend of tangy tomatoes, subtle vodka depth, and smooth creaminess served over perfectly cooked penne pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is rich without being heavy, with a balanced tomato cream sauce that clings beautifully to the penne. It’s easy to prepare, yet refined enough for date night or dinner guests. The vodka adds a distinct note that enhances the tomato flavor, while the cream rounds everything out into a velvety sauce.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Penne pasta
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Onion, finely chopped
• Tomato paste
• Crushed tomatoes or passata
• Vodka
• Heavy cream
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook penne in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
4. Pour in the vodka and cook until the alcohol reduces (about 2–3 minutes).
5. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
6. Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
7. Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water a bit at a time if the sauce is too thick.
8. Stir in grated Parmesan and serve garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Add cooked pancetta or bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Stir in sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Use penne rigate or rigatoni for a different pasta texture.
• Replace vodka with a splash of white wine or omit it altogether for an alcohol-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat to prevent the cream from separating. Freezing is not recommended due to the cream content.

FAQs

Can I taste the vodka in the sauce?

The vodka flavor is subtle. It enhances the tomato’s acidity but is not overpowering when cooked properly.

Is the vodka necessary?

It contributes to the depth of flavor but can be omitted or replaced with broth or wine for a non-alcoholic version.

What’s the best pasta for this sauce?

Penne is traditional, but rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli also work well due to their ridges and shape.

Can I use canned tomato sauce instead of tomato paste and crushed tomatoes?

Yes, but tomato paste adds a richer, more concentrated flavor.

What cream is best for the sauce?

Heavy cream is preferred for a thick, smooth consistency. Avoid using milk or light cream.

Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely. Add red pepper flakes to taste for a gentle heat.

What cheese pairs well with this dish?

Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano are ideal for enhancing the sauce’s richness.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, as long as you do not include pancetta or meat. Use vegetarian Parmesan if needed.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can try with coconut cream or cashew cream, though it will change the flavor profile.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Add cream over low heat and avoid boiling after the cream is incorporated.

Conclusion

Creamy Penne Alla Vodka is a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that’s easy to prepare yet rich in taste. Whether served as a cozy weeknight dinner or part of an elegant meal, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of tangy tomato, smooth cream, and subtle vodka depth — a true Italian-American classic worth savoring.

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