Silky, rich, and effortlessly elegant, this Velvety Penne Alla Vodka is a timeless Italian favorite that balances the boldness of tomatoes with the velvety smoothness of cream. A touch of vodka deepens the flavor, creating a luscious sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight meal or an indulgent dinner for guests, this dish delivers pure sophistication in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Luxuriously Creamy – A smooth, velvety tomato sauce enriched with heavy cream.
Perfectly Balanced – The slight sharpness of vodka enhances the sweetness of tomatoes.
Quick & Easy – Comes together in under 30 minutes for an effortless yet elegant meal.
Restaurant-Worthy Flavor – Achieve an authentic Italian taste right in your own kitchen.
Total Time & Servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- ½ cup (120 ml) vodka
- ½ cup (120 ml) tomato paste
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion and sauté until soft (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Deglaze with Vodka
Pour in the vodka, stirring to lift any bits from the pan. Let it simmer until reduced by half (about 2-3 minutes), allowing the alcohol to cook off while leaving behind its depth of flavor.
Step 4: Add Tomato & Cream
Stir in tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes to deepen its richness. Gradually pour in heavy cream, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and velvety. Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Toss with Pasta & Cheese
Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat each piece evenly. Stir in Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water for the perfect consistency.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Transfer to serving plates, garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan, and serve immediately.
Expert Tips for the Best Penne alla Vodka
Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh Parmesan and real cream make all the difference.
Cook Down the Vodka – Ensure it reduces properly to enhance flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Adjust the Consistency – Reserved pasta water helps create a silky, restaurant-style sauce.
Pair It With
Garlic Bread – The perfect crispy, buttery side for soaking up the sauce.
Crisp Green Salad – A light, refreshing balance to the rich flavors.
A Glass of Chardonnay – A creamy white wine complements the velvety sauce beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
Final Thoughts
Velvety Penne Alla Vodka is a celebration of effortless elegance—simple yet refined, rich yet balanced. Whether you’re indulging in a cozy night in or impressing guests, this dish guarantees a memorable dining experience. Pour a glass of wine, twirl your fork into the luscious sauce, and savor every bite.
