Penne alla vodka is a creamy, tomato-based pasta dish made with penne, vodka, and Parmesan cheese.
Craving a solo adventure in creamy, tomato-y, vodka-y goodness? Buckle up and grab your apron because this penne alla vodka for one is here to rock your pasta world. We’ve got all the steps, all the laughs, and all the yum you need for a culinary trip to Italy—from your kitchen.
Penne alla Vodka
Penne alla Vodka – the creamy, dreamy, tangy pasta dish that takes you straight to Italy, but without the jet lag. Perfect for a solo night in, this recipe delivers a punch of flavor with a kick from vodka. Ideal for those who want maximum deliciousness with minimal fuss.
- Cuisine: Italian
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Method: Sautéing, boiling
Ingredients
- 4 oz penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Cooking Instructions
- Boil water in a medium pot, add a generous pinch of salt, and cook penne pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Remove skillet from heat (no fire emergencies, please) and add the vodka. Put it back on the stove. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
- Add tomato sauce to the skillet and stir well. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Combine the cooked penne pasta with the sauce in the skillet. Mix well to ensure every penne is joyfully swimming in the sauce.
- Plate the pasta, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Suggestions
- Alternative Ingredients: Swap the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Use gluten-free penne if needed.
- Garnishing Options: Freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add a pop of flavor.
- Cooking Tips: Taste the sauce before combining it with the pasta. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Keep a fire extinguisher handy when cooking with alcohol, just in case!
