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Penne Alla Vodka in a white bowl, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Penne Alla Vodka

Lori Mauer
Simmer up a rich, creamy Penne Alla Vodka recipe in just 30 minutes! This quick, comforting pasta dish brings restaurant flavor home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 494 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 1/2 tablespoons vodka
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese optional, for garnish
  • Fresh basil optional, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
  • In the meantime, in a large skillet over medium heat, warm the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the vodka and let it simmer for about 30 seconds to reduce slightly.
    Sautéing diced onion and minced garlic in a skillet for Penne Alla Vodka.
  • Stir in the tomato paste until well combined. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer gently for about 4 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
    Simmering the creamy penne alla vodka sauce in a skillet.
  • Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
    Tossing cooked penne pasta with creamy vodka sauce in a skillet for Penne Alla Vodka.
  • Transfer the pasta to a serving bowl while hot. Serve immediately. If desired, garnish with a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Nutrition

Calories: 494kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 10gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 16gSodium: 214mgFiber: 3g
Keyword penne alla vodka
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