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Traditional Penne alla Vodka

2022-11-02

By The Italian Chef

Italian Cuisine

Main Course

3 Effortless Ways to Perfect Your Penne Vodka Sauce: Instant Pot, Induction Cooker, and Air Fryer

Make Velvety Penne Vodka Sauce in Just 10 Minutes with Your Instant Pot, No Stirring Required!

Use the sauté function to brown onions, garlic, and tomato paste, then pressure cook with vodka and cream for a rich, velvety sauce in just 10 minutes—no stirring or babysitting required!

Simmer Your Penne Vodka Sauce to Perfection with Precision Using an Induction Cooker

Use the induction cooker to maintain a steady simmer while preparing your sauce. It offers precise control over the heat, ensuring your sauce thickens perfectly without burning.

Add a Crispy Crunch to Your Penne Vodka with Air-Fried Breadcrumbs in Just 5 Minutes

Want a crispy topping? Air fry a few breadcrumbs at 350°F for 5 minutes, and sprinkle them over your Penne Vodka for an added crunch and texture.

Tips and Suggestions on Penne alla Vodka

Choosing the right pasta

Penne pasta is the best choice for Penne alla vodka. It has a sturdy shape that holds up well against the rich and creamy sauce.

Cooking the pasta

Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until it is al dente. Be careful not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.

Preparing the sauce

Saute garlic and onions in olive oil until translucent, then add tomato paste and cook for a few minutes to develop flavor. Add vodka and let it cook off for about 5 minutes. Then add crushed tomatoes, cream, and red pepper flakes and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Give our piece a chance to impress you, The Charm of Italian Sautéing.

Creating a smooth sauce

To create a smooth sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to over-blend, as the sauce can become too thin.

Incorporating the pasta

Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce. Toss the pasta with the sauce until it is evenly coated.

Adding the cheese

Grate Parmesan cheese and stir it into the pasta. The cheese will thicken the sauce and add a savory flavor.

Garnishing and serving

Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately. This dish pairs well with a green salad and a glass of red wine.

Adjusting the levels of spice

To adjust the level of spiciness, add more or less red pepper flakes to the sauce, depending on your preference.

Classic Penne alla Vodka Recipe

Ingredients

  • 400g penne pasta
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup vodka
  • 1 can of tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

  1. Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic. Sauté until onion is translucent.
  3. Add vodka to the pan and stir until evaporated.
  4. Add tomato puree and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
  5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
  6. Stir in heavy cream. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Drain the pasta and add it to the tomato sauce. Mix gently to combine.
  8. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil.
  9. Serve hot.

Cooking Time

Preparation Time 10 min

Cook Time 25 min

Total time 35 min

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 400
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Protein: 10 g

Variations for Penne alla Vodka

Spicy Pasta alla Vodka

This version is made by infusing traditional vodka sauce with extra garlic and a punch of heat, served over your favorite pasta for a bold twist.

Spicy Garlicky Pasta alla Vodka

Gnocchi Alla Vodka

This version is made by smothering tender gnocchi in a creamy vodka sauce, creating a rich and comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Gnocchi Alla Vodka

Gnocchi with Vodka Sauce

This version is made by layering cheese and gnocchi in a luscious vodka sauce before baking until bubbly, delivering a deliciously indulgent meal.

Ridiculous Baked Gnocchi with Vodka Sauce

Rigatoni With Vodka

This version is made by whipping up a quick and creamy vodka sauce for rigatoni, perfect for a flavorful dinner ready in just 30 minutes.

30-Minute Rigatoni With Vodka Sauce

Mushroom Pasta Alla Vodka

This version is made by adding sautéed mushrooms to the classic vodka sauce, enhancing the dish with earthy flavors and served over pasta for a delightful bite.

Mushroom Pasta Alla Vodka

Vegan Penne alla Vodka

This version is made by creating a creamy vodka sauce using plant-based ingredients, tossed with penne for a deliciously indulgent vegan pasta dish.

Vegan Penne alla Vodka (Vodka Sauce)

Penne alla Vodka with Salmon

This version is made by combining smoked salmon with a rich vodka sauce and penne, delivering a nostalgic dish that captures the essence of 1980s cuisine.

Penne alla Vodka with Salmon (Smoked) —1980's Disco Vodka Pasta Recipe

Shrimp Pasta Alla Vodka

This version is made by incorporating succulent shrimp into a creamy vodka sauce, served over pasta for a luxurious seafood twist on the classic dish.

Shrimp Pasta Alla Vodka

Chorizo Alla Vodka

This version is made by adding spicy chorizo to a rich vodka sauce, combining bold flavors and hearty pasta for a satisfying meal with a kick.

Chorizo Alla Vodka

Penne Alla Vodka Recipe Review

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