Prepare to revolutionize your weeknight dinner with the most INCREDIBLE one-pot pasta recipe that will make you look like a culinary genius without spending hours in the kitchen! 🍝🔥 Our One Pot Pasta alla Vodka is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich, creamy decadence of a classic Italian sauce with the simplicity of a single-pan meal. Imagine creating a restaurant-worthy dish that's ready in just 30 minutes, with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor – this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup vodka
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Pour in the vodka and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol and concentrate the flavor, stirring occasionally.
- Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and vodka. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the uncooked penne pasta directly into the sauce, ensuring the pasta is mostly covered by the liquid. If needed, add a small amount of water to ensure pasta is submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once pasta is almost al dente, stir in the heavy cream, creating a rich and creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Let the pasta rest for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your one-pot pasta alla vodka!
Tips
- • For the best flavor, use a good quality vodka that you'd actually enjoy drinking. The alcohol cooks off, but the flavor concentrates beautifully. • Don't rush the garlic sautéing step – those 30-45 seconds are crucial for building a flavor foundation. • Stir occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent sticking, and make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in liquid. • If the sauce seems too thick, save some pasta water before draining. A splash can help you achieve the perfect creamy consistency. • For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. • Fresh basil or parsley as a garnish can add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, creamy sauce. • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor – pre-grated cheese won't give you the same luxurious result.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 90mg
