Vodka Pasta (Penne alla Vodka) Recipe

Vodka pasta, also known as Penne alla Vodka, is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that is both simple and satisfying. The combination of vodka, tomato passata, and cream creates a silky, smooth sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Don’t worry about the alcohol content—most of it evaporates during cooking, leaving behind a subtle depth of flavor.

This classic Italian-American recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant meal with friends. Serve it with freshly grated parmesan and basil for an irresistible finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight.
• Rich & Creamy – A luscious, velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta.
• Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples, yet delivers restaurant-quality flavor.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level, use different cheeses, or add proteins like shrimp or chicken.
• Crowd-Pleasing – A universally loved pasta dish that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• Pinch of dried chili flakes
• 50ml vodka
• 250ml passata
• 150ml double cream or mascarpone
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tsp red wine vinegar
• 200g pasta (rigatoni or penne works best)
• 25g parmesan, finely grated (plus extra for serving)
• Basil leaves, for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the Aromatics:

• Heat the butter or oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
• Add the garlic and chili flakes and cook for a few seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
• Pour in the vodka and let it bubble for a minute to cook off the alcohol.

2. Simmer the Sauce:

• Add the passata and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
• Season with salt, pepper, sugar, and red wine vinegar to balance the flavors.

3. Cook the Pasta:

• Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve a ladle of pasta water before draining.

4. Finish the Sauce:

• Stir the cream or mascarpone into the tomato sauce along with a splash of pasta water to loosen it.
• Add the drained pasta and toss until well coated.

5. Stir in Cheese & Serve:

• Mix in the grated parmesan until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
• Adjust seasoning to taste and add a little more pasta water if needed.
• Serve with extra parmesan and fresh basil leaves for garnish.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2

Variations

• Spicy Vodka Pasta: Add more chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Protein Additions: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta for added texture and flavor.
• Cheese Variations: Use pecorino romano for a sharper taste or add mozzarella for extra creaminess.
• Vegetarian Version: Use a vegetarian parmesan alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with gluten-free pasta.

Storage and Reheating

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Avoid microwaving for too long, as the sauce may separate.

Freezing:

• The sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Why add vodka to pasta sauce?

Vodka enhances the flavor of the tomatoes and cream, helping emulsify the sauce for a silky texture.

Does the alcohol cook off?

Yes, most of the alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving only a subtle flavor.

Can I make vodka pasta without vodka?

Yes! You can substitute with chicken broth or water with a squeeze of lemon for acidity.

What is the best pasta for vodka sauce?

Rigatoni or penne works best because their shape holds the sauce well.

Can I use tomato purée instead of passata?

Yes! Use 5-6 tablespoons of tomato purée mixed with 200ml of water as a substitute.

What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream or a plant-based alternative instead of heavy cream.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta and light cream for a lower-calorie version.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, since the alcohol content is cooked off, but you can omit the vodka if preferred.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and mix with freshly cooked pasta.

Conclusion

Vodka Pasta (Penne alla Vodka) is a creamy, rich, and flavorful dish that is both easy to make and impressive to serve. With its velvety tomato-cream sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner, a family meal, or just indulging in comfort food, this quick and delicious recipe will not disappoint.

Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors!

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