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Pasta alla Vodka

Luxurious penne coated in a silky tomato cream sauce enriched with vodka, creating a sophisticated and velvety dish.

35 minEasyServes 4490 cal/serving

ItalianDinnerStovetopVegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 lb dried penne pasta
  • 28 oz can canned crushed tomatoes (28 oz)
  • 1/4 cup vodka
  • 2/3 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 12 fresh basil leaves, torn

Instructions

  1. 1

    Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook 1 lb dried penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.

  2. 2

    Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Add 28 oz can canned crushed tomatoes (28 oz) and stir well. Simmer for 8 minutes.

  4. 4

    Carefully pour in 1/4 cup vodka and let simmer for 2 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off.

  5. 5

    Reduce heat to low and stir in 2/3 cup heavy cream slowly, stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce.

  6. 6

    Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Simmer for 3 minutes more.

  7. 7

    Drain dried penne pasta and add to the sauce. Toss gently until well coated.

  8. 8

    Divide into serving bowls and top with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 12 torn fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.

Questions

Can I make Pasta alla Vodka dairy-free?

Yes. The dairy in this entry is 2/3 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Swap the cream for full-fat coconut milk or an oat cooking cream; the cheese for a plant-based melting cheese (expect a milder flavor). The richness shifts slightly, but the method does not change.

Can I make Pasta alla Vodka gluten-free?

Yes. The gluten in this entry is 1 lb dried penne pasta. Swap the pasta for a gluten-free one, cooked a minute short of its package time. Everything else proceeds as written.

How long does Pasta alla Vodka keep?

Refrigerate leftovers within two hours and eat them within three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Can I halve or double Pasta alla Vodka?

Yes. As written it serves 4. Every ingredient in this entry carries precomputed half and double quantities, and the app's batch dial rewrites them inside each step. When doubling on the stovetop, use your widest pan or work in two batches so the food sears instead of steaming.

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