Calling all busy bees!
This one’s for you.
If you’re a parent juggling little ones, a working professional with limited time, or simply someone who appreciates a speedy but satisfying meal, then this Penne Alla Vodka recipe is your new best friend.
It’s crazy delicious, comes together in under 25 minutes, and uses ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Plus, it’s easily adaptable for pickier eaters (we’re looking at you, little ones!). Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Fast & Easy: This recipe is a weeknight dream. From boiling water to plating your pasta, you’ll be out of the kitchen in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Ditch the vodka (we’ll get to that in a sec) and you’ve got a creamy tomato sauce that everyone will love. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
- Pantry Staples: This recipe uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for a special grocery run!
- Beginner-Friendly: Even the newest cooks can master this recipe. There’s no fancy equipment or complicated techniques involved.
The Vodka Twist (Optional):
Traditionally, Penne Alla Vodka includes vodka.
The alcohol burns off during cooking, leaving behind a subtle depth of flavor.
However, this recipe is absolutely delicious without it!
So feel free to skip the vodka altogether or add a splash of chicken broth for a similar effect.
Let’s Cook!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 shallot, minced (you can substitute onion if you don’t have shallots)
- 4 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Get a pot of salted water going over medium-high heat. Add your penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
2. Prep Time:
While your pasta boils, mince your shallot and grate your Parmesan cheese.
3. Sauté the Shallots:
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add your shallots and cook until golden brown and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
4. Build the Sauce:
Add the tomato paste to the pan with the shallots and stir it in to combine.
Let it cook for a minute or two, then whisk in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pasta Party!
Once your pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
Add the drained pasta and reserved pasta water to your sauce pan.
Toss everything together until well combined and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Spice it Up (Optional):
If you like a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Plate your delicious Penne Alla Vodka and devour!
Tips:
- For a richer sauce, use full-fat heavy cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to get creative! This recipe is a great base for adding other ingredients like cooked chicken, shrimp, or your favorite vegetables.
So ditch the takeout menus and whip up this amazing Penne Alla Vodka.
It’s the perfect weeknight meal that’s both easy and impressive.
Enjoy!