Indulge in the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with this creamy penne vodka sauce recipe. This dish combines the satisfying texture of al dente penne pasta with a luxurious, vodka-infused tomato cream sauce. It’s a classic comfort food that is sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests. Follow this simple recipe to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Creamy Penne Vodka Sauce:
- 1 pound (450g) penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vodka
- 1 can (28 ounces/800g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How to Make Creamy Penne Vodka Sauce:
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the vodka to the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the sauce is heated through.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until it is evenly coated in the sauce.
- Serve the creamy penne vodka sauce hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Penne Pasta: Penne is a tube-shaped pasta that is perfect for holding onto thick sauces like vodka sauce. Its ridges and hollow center help the sauce cling to the pasta, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
- Vodka: Vodka is a key ingredient in this recipe, adding depth and complexity to the sauce. The alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving behind a subtle flavor that enhances the tomatoes and cream.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes form the base of the sauce, providing a rich tomato flavor and a smooth, velvety texture.
- Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, giving it a luxurious texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
Enjoy this creamy penne vodka sauce recipe as a satisfying weeknight meal or a delicious dish to impress your dinner guests. Buon appetito!
