Imagine diving into a hearty bowl of penne pasta, dressed in a creamy, spicy vodka sauce. This recipe is a twist on the traditional pasta recipes, with the unique addition of vodka that adds a special kick to the rich tomato and cream base. It's a sophisticated yet simple dish that's sure to impress your family and friends.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples like olive oil, garlic, and pasta. However, there are a few special ingredients that elevate this dish. San Marzano tomatoes, known for their sweet flavor and low acidity, are key to a well-balanced sauce. If you can't find them, use the best quality canned tomatoes you can find. Prosciutto, an Italian dry-cured ham, adds a savory depth. If it's not readily available, substitute with bacon. Fresh herbs like oregano and basil are also crucial for their aromatic contribution.
Ingredients for Penne Pasta with Vodka Sauce
San Marzano tomatoes: These are a type of plum tomato, known for their balanced flavor. They make the sauce rich and tangy.
Extra virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a subtle depth of flavor.
Yellow onion: Adds a hint of sweetness and enhances the sauce's overall flavor.
Prosciutto: This Italian dry-cured ham gives the sauce a salty, savory profile.
Garlic: Essential for flavor, it's sautéed until fragrant.
Vodka: It helps to emulsify the sauce, contributing to its creaminess.
Red pepper flakes: They add a spicy kick, but you can adjust the amount to your taste.
Heavy cream: It gives the sauce its creamy, velvety texture.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty note and thickens the sauce.
Oregano: Fresh oregano provides an earthy, slightly bitter taste.
Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a sweet, peppery taste and a pleasant aroma.
Penne pasta: Penne is great for this recipe as its tube shape holds onto the sauce well.
One reader, Dot Hillman says:
This penne pasta with vodka sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and indulgent, and the creamy vodka sauce is simply divine. It's a must-try for pasta lovers. The combination of ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Highly recommended!
Key Techniques for Perfecting Penne Pasta With Vodka Sauce
How to sauté onions and prosciutto: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and prosciutto, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the prosciutto is slightly crispy.
How to simmer vodka sauce: After adding the tomatoes, vodka, and seasonings to the pot, bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strong alcohol scent has cooked off.
How to cook penne pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.
How to thin the sauce: When adding the drained pasta to the sauce, thin the sauce with a little pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
How to garnish with basil: Before serving, garnish the penne pasta with vodka sauce with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.
How To Make Penne Pasta with Vodka Sauce
Tender pasta dish topped with rich and savory vodka sauce that brings a tangy and smooth feel brought by the liquor and the herbs and cheese bring balance.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 28ozSan Marzano tomatoes,(1 can) crushed finely with hands
- 2tbspextra virgin olive oil
- ½cupyellow onion,minced
- 3ozprosciutto,diced, optional
- 1tbspgarlic,(3 cloves) minced
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- ½cupvodka
- ¼tspred pepper flakes,more or less to taste
- ⅔cupheavy cream
- ¼cupparmesan cheese,finely shredded plus more for serving
- 1tbspfresh oregano,chopped
- ¼cupfresh basil,chopped
- 14ozpenne pasta,plus reserved pasta water for thinning sauce as needed
Instructions
-
Bring a pot of water to a boil to cook pasta. Season water with salt.
-
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and prosciutto saute 4 – 5 minutes, add garlic and red pepper flakes and saute 1 minute longer.
-
Remove pan from heat and add tomatoes, vodka, season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Return to medium-high heat, bring to a simmer then reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer until strong alcohol scent has cooked off, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain pasta.
-
Stir cream into sauce and let just heat through, about 1 minute. Stir in parmesan, basil and oregano.
-
Add drained pasta to pot with sauce, toss to coat, while thinning sauce with a little pasta water as needed.
-
Serve warm with more Parmesan and garnish with more basil if desired.
Nutrition
- Calories: 506.23kcal
- Fat: 18.41g
- Saturated Fat: 8.37g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.28g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.52g
- Carbohydrates: 58.17g
- Fiber: 4.41g
- Sugar: 6.65g
- Protein: 16.89g
- Cholesterol: 50.36mg
- Sodium: 663.76mg
- Calcium: 138.42mg
- Potassium: 605.49mg
- Iron: 1.81mg
- Vitamin A: 180.80µg
- Vitamin C: 19.91mg
Pro Tip for Elevating Your Penne Alla Vodka
When adding the vodka to the sauce, it's important to let it simmer long enough for the strong alcohol scent to cook off. This not only ensures that the alcohol is properly cooked out, but it also allows the flavors to meld together. However, be careful not to let it simmer for too long as it can reduce too much and alter the consistency of the sauce.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Penne Alla Vodka
Plan ahead: Prep ingredients and utensils before starting to cook to streamline the process.
Multitask: While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta to save time.
Use pre-cut ingredients: Opt for pre-cut vegetables or pre-minced garlic to cut down on prep time.
One-pot cooking: Choose recipes that allow you to cook everything in one pot to minimize cleanup time.
Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of the sauce and freeze the extra for future use to save time on busy days.
Invest in kitchen gadgets: Use tools like a food processor or immersion blender to speed up prep and cooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Penne Pasta with Vodka Sauce Recipe
san marzano tomatoes - Substitute with canned plum tomatoes: Canned plum tomatoes are a good substitute for San Marzano tomatoes as they have a similar texture and flavor profile.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for extra virgin olive oil in cooking.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions can be used as a substitute for yellow onions, as they have a similar flavor profile and can be used interchangeably in most recipes.
prosciutto - Substitute with pancetta: Pancetta is a suitable substitute for prosciutto as it is also a cured Italian meat with a similar flavor profile.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic in this recipe, providing a milder flavor and convenience.
vodka - Substitute with white wine: White wine can be used as a substitute for vodka in the sauce, adding a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol content.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free substitute for heavy cream, adding a rich and creamy texture to the sauce.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for Parmesan cheese, providing a similar salty and tangy flavor to the dish.
penne pasta - Substitute with rigatoni pasta: Rigatoni pasta can be used as a substitute for penne, as it has a similar shape and texture, and will hold the sauce well.
Plating Ideas for Penne Alla Vodka
Elevate the plating: Ensure the penne pasta is neatly arranged on the plate, with the sauce generously coating each piece of pasta. The dish should be visually appealing, with the vibrant colors of the sauce and the pasta shining through.
Garnish with fresh basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the pasta to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. The bright green basil will provide a beautiful contrast to the rich, creamy vodka sauce.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Carefully drizzle a small amount of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the pasta to add a glossy finish and enhance the flavors. The drizzling should be done with precision to create an artistic presentation.
Use elegant serving dishes: Choose sophisticated, elegant serving dishes that complement the colors of the dish. The presentation should exude refinement and elegance, reflecting the high culinary standards of a Michelin-starred establishment.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring that every detail is meticulously arranged. Precision in plating demonstrates a commitment to excellence and attention to detail.
Consider portion control: Present the dish in smaller, carefully portioned servings to emphasize quality over quantity. Each bite should be a delightful experience, and the portion size should reflect the focus on refined dining.
Highlight the sauce: Use a technique such as a quenelle to delicately place a small amount of the vodka sauce on top of the pasta. This will draw attention to the sauce and showcase its velvety texture and rich flavor.
Emphasize the use of fresh ingredients: Showcase the quality of the ingredients by incorporating a small cluster of fresh oregano as a garnish. This not only adds a burst of flavor but also emphasizes the use of premium, fresh herbs in the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Vodka Sauce Pasta
- Pot: A large, deep container used for boiling, stewing, or steaming ingredients.
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped container with small holes used for draining liquids from food.
- Wooden spoon: A utensil used for stirring, mixing, and tasting food.
- Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Grater: A tool used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other foods.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces and heating liquids.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients.
- Garlic press: A tool used for crushing and mincing garlic cloves.
- Peeler: A kitchen tool used for removing the outer skin of fruits and vegetables.
- Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting food items.
- Grill: A cooking appliance used for grilling and barbecuing food.
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and broiling food.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining and mixing ingredients.
- Blender: A kitchen appliance used for blending, puréeing, and emulsifying ingredients.
- Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and puréeing food.
- Rolling pin: A cylindrical tool used for flattening and shaping dough.
- Pastry brush: A kitchen tool with bristles used for applying sauces, glazes, and oils to food.
- Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and roasting in the oven.
- Mixer: A kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
- Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for flipping, lifting, and spreading food.
- Strainer: A tool used for separating liquids from solids by pouring the mixture through a perforated surface.
- Mortar and pestle: A pair of tools used for grinding and crushing spices, herbs, and other ingredients.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for Penne Pasta With Vodka Sauce
- Let the penne pasta with vodka sauce cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled pasta and sauce to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta and sauce:
- Divide the cooled pasta and sauce into individual serving-sized portions.
- Place each portion in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
- To reheat frozen penne pasta with vodka sauce:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed pasta and sauce to a microwave-safe dish or saucepan.
- Microwave: Heat on high power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta and sauce are warmed through. Add a splash of water or cream if needed to thin the sauce.
- Note that the texture of the pasta may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavor should remain delicious.
The Best Ways to Reheat Penne Pasta With Vodka Sauce
Reheat the penne pasta in the vodka sauce on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method allows you to control the temperature and ensure even heating, while also allowing you to add a splash of heavy cream or pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.
If you're short on time, you can reheat the penne pasta with vodka sauce in the microwave. Place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the pasta to become rubbery and the sauce to separate.
For a crispy twist, reheat the penne pasta with vodka sauce in a skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan, then add the pasta and sauce. Toss the pasta in the pan until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method adds a nice texture contrast to the dish.
If you have an oven-safe dish, you can reheat the penne pasta with vodka sauce in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the pasta and sauce in the dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly and create a nice crust.
For a quick and easy lunch, reheat individual portions of the penne pasta with vodka sauce in a microwave-safe container. Add a splash of water or heavy cream to the container, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated to your desired temperature.
Interesting Trivia About Penne Pasta With Vodka Sauce
The vodka sauce in this recipe is named for the addition of vodka, which helps to enhance the flavors of the tomatoes and cream. The alcohol in the vodka evaporates during cooking, leaving behind a rich and complex flavor that pairs perfectly with the acidity of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the sauce.
Budget-Friendly Penne Pasta With Vodka Sauce
The cost-effectiveness of this penne pasta with vodka sauce recipe is quite favorable for a household. The use of simple and readily available ingredients such as tomatoes, pasta, and onion makes it budget-friendly. The addition of prosciutto and vodka may slightly increase the cost, but the overall expense is reasonable. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, earning a solid 8/10 rating. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20, making it an economical and satisfying meal option.
Is Penne Pasta With Vodka Sauce Healthy?
This penne pasta with vodka sauce recipe is a delicious and indulgent dish, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:
- The recipe includes heavy cream and parmesan cheese, which are high in saturated fat and calories.
- Prosciutto is a processed meat that is high in sodium and may increase the risk of certain health issues when consumed in excess.
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of olive oil, which, while a healthy fat, can still contribute to a high calorie count when used in large quantities.
- Vodka, although mostly cooked off, adds extra calories to the dish without providing any nutritional value.
On the positive side, the recipe incorporates tomatoes, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, which offer some vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of heavy cream or replace it with a lower-fat alternative, such as half-and-half or evaporated skim milk.
- Use less parmesan cheese or opt for a lower-fat cheese like part-skim mozzarella.
- Replace prosciutto with a leaner protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, or omit it altogether for a vegetarian option.
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe, or use a cooking spray to minimize added fat.
- Increase the number of vegetables in the dish by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to boost the nutritional value and fiber content.
- Use whole wheat penne pasta instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.
Our Editor's Opinion on This Penne Pasta With Vodka Sauce Recipe
The penne pasta with vodka sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of prosciutto adds a savory depth to the sauce, while the vodka and cream create a rich and luxurious base. The addition of fresh herbs like basil and oregano brings a burst of freshness to the dish. The recipe is well-balanced and offers a comforting and satisfying meal. It's a perfect choice for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests.
Enhance Your Penne Pasta with Vodka Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Pasta Recipes to Try
Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for a Penne Pasta With Vodka Sauce Dinner
Why trust this Penne Pasta with Vodka Sauce Recipe:
This recipe is a trusted classic, using authentic San Marzano tomatoes for rich flavor. The combination of prosciutto and garlic adds depth, while the vodka infuses a unique, sophisticated taste. The addition of heavy cream creates a luscious, velvety texture, and the blend of parmesan cheese, basil, and oregano brings a burst of fresh, aromatic notes. The careful instructions ensure a perfect al dente penne pasta, and the option to adjust the sauce's consistency with reserved pasta water guarantees a flawless result. Trust in this recipe for an unforgettable dining experience.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Delightful Garlic Vodka Alfredo Sauce With Shrimp Recipe
Penne Alla Vodka With Ground Beef Recipe
Penne Pasta with Vodka Sauce Recipe
Crusty Cranberry Nut No Knead Bread Recipe
Salted Chocolate Pistachio Shortbread Recipe
Honey Mustard Chicken Wing Sauce Recipe
Bourbon Caramel Sauce Recipe
Strawberry Sauce Recipe
Union Cantina Lobster Tacos Recipe
Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies Recipe
Chocolate Banana Cream Pie Recipe
