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Penne a la Vodka

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Penne alla Vodka is what happens when comfort food gets a little dressed up and decides to flirt. 🍝✨ It’s rich, creamy, and unapologetically indulgent—each bite coated in that velvety tomato sauce with just enough vodka to deepen the flavor (don’t worry, it’s not getting you tipsy… just impressed). The heat from the red pepper flakes sneaks in like a wink, while the Parmesan melts everything together into pure, savory luxury. This is the pasta you make when you want people to pause mid-bite and say, “Wait… this is REALLY good.” Perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or those “I deserve something amazing tonight” kind of evenings. Because sometimes, basic pasta just isn’t enough—you need pasta with personality.

Prep 10 minCook 25 minTotal 35 min4 servingsEasy620 calories
Penne a la Vodka

Directions

Creamy, rich tomato pasta with a subtle vodka kick and silky finish.

  1. 1.Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. 2.In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, stir in tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes to deepen flavor.
  3. 3.Add minced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. 4.Pour in vodka and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
  5. 5.Stir in heavy cream and a pinch of sugar until smooth. Add red pepper flakes and reduce heat. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  6. 6.Add cooked pasta to the sauce along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss to coat evenly.
  7. 7.Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. 8.Garnish with fresh basil and sliced scallions. Serve warm.
  9. 9.2. Finish with fresh parsley, adjust seasoning, and serve immediately.

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