Creamy Penne A La Vodka (2024)

This easy Penne alla Vodka recipe is a classic Italian pasta dish made in less than 30 minutes. Al dente cooked pasta is tossed in a rich and creamy sauce made with whole tomatoes, a splash of vodka and finished with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.

The Best Penne Alla Vodka Recipe

I love easy pasta recipes that can be made with minimal ingredients and in very little time, just like this penne alla vodka recipe.

This simple pasta dish combines tender penne pasta with a flavorful creamy tomato-based sauce infused with vodka. Parmigiano Reggiano and fresh basil add lots of delicious flavor, and a touch of heavy cream gives this vodka sauce recipe richness and its wonderful silky and creamy texture.

If you don’t drink alcohol or if you have small children, don’t worry! The alcohol in the vodka sauce cooks off leaving you with a flavorful cream sauce.

What Does the Vodka do in Penne Alla Vodka?

The vodka added to the penne alla vodka sauce intensifies the flavor of the tomatoes, without adding an alcoholic taste to the sauce. While the alcohol in the vodka cooks off, it gives the pasta sauce a boost of flavor.

What You’ll Need to Make Pasta with Vodka Sauce

• Canned San Marzano Tomatoes: This variety of tomato is sweeter and less acidic than other types. If you cannot find them, use canned whole plum tomatoes. Crushed tomatoes can also be used.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic is the best option. Garlic paste works as well.
• Chopped Onion: I usually use brown or yellow onions. White onions are also a good option as they are sweeter than other varieties.
• Vodka: The star of the dish! I use good quality vodka but not top shelf vodka. If you only use vodka for cooking, buying a small bottle is the way to go. You can make homemade vanilla extract with any leftover vodka.
• Tomato Paste: Tomato paste adds depths of flavor and a rich red hue to the sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a little spicy kick to the sauce. You can omit it if you prefer.
• Heavy Cream: Also sold as heavy whipping cream.
• Pasta: Traditionally, penne is the pasta of choice but other small pasta like rigatoni can be used. Cook the pasta al dente and reserve some of the pasta cooking water before draining it. Adding the starchy cooking water keeps the pasta saucy and creamy.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best. If you have some of the cheese rind, add it to the sauce for extra flavor. Pecorino Romano is also a good option when serving Italian food.

Additions and Variations

• Although the vodka sauce is vegetarian, you can make it with crispy pancetta, bacon or sweet Italian sausage.
• Use any small shape of pasta instead of penne. Fusilli, rigatoni and ziti are good options.

How To Make Penne Alla Vodka (Step by Step)

• Sauté: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until the onions become translucent. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes and cook for about a minute.
• Add Vodka: Add the vodka and allow it to simmer for about 3-4 minutes or until the mixture is reduced by half.
• Simmer: Add the tomato paste and the canned whole tomatoes and their liquid. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring often, while crushing the tomatoes roughly with a wooden spoon. Simmer for about 8-10 minutes.
• Add Heavy Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and mix to combine.
• Blend: Transfer the sauce to a blender or food processor and process until you have a smooth tomato sauce. For convenience, you can use an immersion blender, although the sauce may not be as smooth.
• Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat. Reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
• Finish the Sauce: Return the vodka sauce to the pot and simmer over low heat, partially covered for about 6-8 minutes. Season to taste.
• Serve: Toss the pasta with the vodka sauce. Add some of the pasta cooking water, if needed. Remove from the heat and serve garnished with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese (optional).

Is There Vodka In Penne Alla Vodka?

Yes, vodka sauce is indeed made with real vodka. As you simmer the sauce, the alcohol in the vodka completely cooks off making this recipe kid-friendly.

Can You Freeze Vodka Pasta Sauce?

Yes, vodka sauce freezes well. Store the sauce (without the pasta) in an airtight container or a freezer-safe resealable bag and freeze for about 2 months. Thaw out in the refrigerator overnight.

How to Store Vodka Sauce?

To store creamy tomato vodka sauce, first cool the sauce completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.

Leftover pasta mixed with vodka sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days; however, the pasta will absorb the sauce making the dish a bit dry.

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