If you're craving a dish that perfectly balances creamy richness with a hint of spirited flavor, look no further than Penne Pasta with Vodka! This Italian classic is not just a meal; it's an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your soul. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish that will impress family and friends alike. Get ready to elevate your pasta game and discover why this recipe is a must-try for any pasta lover!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of penne pasta, 1/4 cup of vodka, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of marinara sauce, 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp of olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant but not browned.
- Carefully pour in 1/4 cup of vodka into the skillet with the garlic. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off slightly and the flavors to meld.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of marinara sauce and let it simmer for another 2 minutes, mixing well with the vodka and garlic.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine. Allow the sauce to heat through for about 2-3 minutes, but do not let it boil.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the vodka sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the pasta sit for a minute to absorb some of the sauce.
- Serve the penne pasta in bowls, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Penne Pasta with Vodka!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: For the best texture, opt for high-quality penne pasta. Look for brands that are made from 100% durum wheat for that perfect al dente bite.
- Don't Skip the Salt: When boiling the pasta, make sure to add a generous amount of salt to the water. It enhances the flavor of the pasta and is crucial for a delicious final dish.
- Simmer the Vodka: Allow the vodka to simmer for a few minutes to cook off the alcohol. This step is essential to develop a rich flavor without the harshness of raw vodka.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half. This will still give you a creamy texture without being overly rich.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining. It’s a great way to adjust the sauce consistency, making it cling perfectly to the pasta.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: For an extra pop of flavor and color, consider garnishing your dish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
- Pair with a Side: Serve your Penne Pasta with Vodka alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread to create a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 620kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg
