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Creamy Easy Pasta alla Vodka Recipe Perfect for Quick Dinners

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A quick and comforting pasta alla vodka recipe featuring a silky pink sauce made with vodka, tomatoes, and cream. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 28 oz (800 g) crushed tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (can substitute half-and-half for lighter version)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) vodka
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
  • 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta (or rigatoni, fusilli)
  • Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent and soft, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding browning.
  4. Pour in 1/4 cup (60 ml) vodka carefully. Let it simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes (28 oz / 800 g) and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream. Warm through for 2-3 minutes until sauce turns pink.
  7. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  8. Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency.
  9. Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh basil, toss once more, and serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Do not rush the vodka reduction step to avoid harsh alcohol flavor. Use good-quality canned tomatoes like San Marzano for best taste. Keep heat medium to low when adding cream to prevent curdling. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances flavor significantly.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta alla vodka, creamy pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, vodka sauce, penne pasta, comfort food

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