Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast! This Penne with Vodka Sauce is not just a meal—it's a creamy, luxurious experience that combines the bold flavors of Italy with a touch of sophisticated cooking technique. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or a pasta enthusiast seeking the perfect comfort food, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience with its rich, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked penne.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup vodka
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 12 oz of penne pasta, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 small onion (chopped), 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1/4 cup of vodka, salt and pepper to taste, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water, then add the penne pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the onions. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.
- Pour in the can of tomato sauce, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic mixture. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- After the sauce has simmered, carefully add the vodka to the skillet. Stir well and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the alcohol evaporate and the flavors to integrate.
- Reduce the heat to low, then slowly stir in the heavy cream. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
- Once the penne pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Add the drained penne directly into the skillet with the vodka sauce.
- Gently toss the pasta in the sauce, adding a little reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Ensure the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the penne with vodka sauce immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade Penne with Vodka Sauce!
Tips
- Use high-quality pasta: Choose a good brand of penne that holds sauce well.
- Salt your pasta water generously: This is your only chance to season the pasta from the inside.
- Don't rush the sautéing: Take time to develop flavors by slowly cooking onions and garlic.
- Use fresh garlic: It makes a significant difference in taste compared to pre-minced garlic.
- Control your vodka: Add it carefully and let it reduce to remove the alcohol bite.
- Keep some pasta water: The starchy water helps create a silky, clingy sauce.
- Garnish generously: Fresh parsley adds color and a bright, fresh note to the dish.
- Serve immediately: Pasta and sauce are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the pan.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
