Penne with Vodka Sauce (25 Minutes)

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Penne with rich and creamy vodka sauce is a fan favorite in my house. Made with tomatoes, heavy cream, and a splash of vodka this meal is easy to make and sure to impress. Pair with a side salad or crusty loaf of bread and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal on the table in under 30 minutes. 

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup vodka
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the crushed tomatoes and vodka to the pan, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve the penne pasta with the vodka sauce, garnished with chopped fresh basil if desired.

Notes

I typically cook the pasta al dente and use a good quality vodka for the sauce, as this will enhance the flavor. If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the onion and garlic mixture. The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for a quick meal. 

*The following nutritional information is based on estimates.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/penne-with-vodka-sauce-25-minutes/