This penne alla vodka recipe is easy to make with tender pasta tossed in a creamy homemade tomato-vodka sauce for a impressive dinner in just 30 minutes!
Preparation Time
10 mins
Cooking Time
20 mins
Total Time
30 mins
Calories
647 Calories
Recipe Instructions
Step 1
Gather all ingredients.
Step 2
Place a large pot of salted water over high heat to bring to a boil. Pour tomatoes in a medium bowl and crush well with hands or chop in a food processor. Set aside.
Step 3
While sauce reduces, add pasta to boiling water and cook, according to package directions until al dente, 11 to 12 minutes.
Step 4
Once sauce is reduced, stir in heavy cream and pepper and cook for 3 minutes, stirring often. Stir in 1/3 cup cheese, parsley, basil and pasta until well combined. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
Step 5
Serve and enjoy.
Step 6
Sprinkle with remaining cheese and more herbs if desired.
Step 7
While water heats, prepare the sauce: Heat oil and pancetta in a large saucepan or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently until pancetta is crisp, about 5 minutes. Add onion and cook, stirring constantly, until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and crushed red pepper and cook for 1 minute. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring often, until the tomato paste has taken on a slight brownish color, 2 to 3 minutes. Add vodka and cook until reduced by at least half. Stir in reserved tomatoes and juices and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes.
Ingredients
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons tomato paste
3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
0.5 cup finely chopped onion
1 (28 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
3 ounces pancetta, diced
0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper, or more to taste