Description
A classic Italian-American pasta dish featuring penne pasta in a creamy tomato sauce with vodka.
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Pour in the vodka and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate slightly.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
Notes
- Using good quality crushed tomatoes will enhance the flavor of the sauce.
- For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- If you don’t have vodka, you can omit it, but it does add a unique depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American