Penne alla Vodka: A Classic Italian Delight

Welcome to my West Virginia kitchen!  Penne Alla Vodka is a timeless Italian dish that strikes the perfect balance between rich, creamy tomato sauce and the subtle kick of vodka.  

This dish has been a favorite in Italian-American cuisine for decades, and it's easy to see why.  With it's velvety sauce clinging to perfectly cooked penne, it's a crowd pleaser that's both comforting and indulgent.  Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty meal, this Penne Alla Vodka recipe is sure to satisfy.  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get Started!

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:

• Easy to Make:  This recipe requires only a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry.  
• Rich and Creamy:  The combination of heavy cream and tomato sauce creates a luscious, velvety texture that's hard to resist.  
• Perfect for any Occasion:  Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Penne Alla Vodka fits the bill.  
• Customizable:  You can easily add protein like chicken or shrimp, or keep it vegetarian by sticking to the classic recipe.  

INGREDIENTS:

For this Penne Alla Vodka recipe you will need to gather a few simple ingredeints:

• 1 pound Penne Pasta
• 1 (28 oz) can of Crushed Tomatoes
• 1 cup Half and Half or Heavy Cream
• 1/2 cup Vodka
• 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan
• 4-5 Cloves of Garlic, minced
• 1 Onion, diced
• 2-3 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Pepper
• 1 tsp Basil
• 1/4 tsp Crushed Red Chili Flakes

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cook the Pasta:  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.  Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.  Drain the pasta and set it aside.  
2. Prepare the Sauce:  In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.  Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.  Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.  
3. Add the Vodka:  Pour the vodka and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol   to cook off.  This step infuses the sauce with a subtle depth of flavor that sets Penne Alla Vodka apart from other tomato based sauces.  
4. Add the Tomatoes:  Stir in the crushed tomatoes, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.  Add the salt, pepper, basil, red chili flakes, and sugar.  Stir until everything is incorporated and smooth.  Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors meld together.
5. Finish the Sauce:  Reduce the heat to low, and stir in the half and half or heavy cream.  Cook the sauce for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes rich and creamy.  Make any adjustments you feel it needs to the seasoning.
6. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:  Add the cooked penne to the skillet, and toss it in the sauce until the pasta is well coated.  Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt into the sauce.
7. Serve:  Transfer the Penne Alla Vodka to serving plates, and garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese.  Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors of this Italian classic.  

STEP-BY-STEP PHOTOGRAPHS:

TIPS AND TRICKS:

• Use High Quality Vodka:  While the vodka cooks off, it leaves behind a subtle flavor that enhances the sauce.  Choose a good quality vodka for best results.  
• Don't Skip the Cream:  The cream is essential for creating that signature velvety texture.  If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute with half and half, but the richness may be slightly reduced.  
• Add Protein:  For a healthier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta to the dish.  
• Make it Spicy:  If you like a little heat, don't hesitate to add extra red pepper flakes or even a splashed of hot sauce.

FAQs:

What type of pasta works best with vodka sauce?

Penne is the traditional choice because its tubular shape holds the sauce well.  However, you can also use rigatoni, fusilli, or any other pasta that can hold the creamy sauce. 

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, Penne Alla Vodka can be made ahead of time.  Store the sauce and pasta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.  When ready to serve, reheat in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.  When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta.  

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this recipe?

If you'd like to avoid alcohol, you can substitute the vodka with chicken or vegetable broth.  While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still be delicious.  

Penne Alla Vodka is a dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal without requiring hours in the kitchen.  Its rich, creamy sauce and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced cooks alike.  Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or a romantic night in, this recipe is sure to impress.  So, grab a fork and dive into a plate of the delicious, classic pasta dish! 

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all!

~The Kitchen Wife~