Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a rich and luscious pasta dish that never fails to impress, this Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe will become your new go-to. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy but comes together in just about 20 minutes, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked on the silky, slightly tangy sauce that hugs every piece of penne.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe works together to build layers of flavor and texture. From the sharp tang of tomato paste to the richness of heavy cream and the subtle floral notes from the vodka, it’s a harmony in your mouth. Here are some quick tips on what to look for when shopping:

• Penne or Ziti Pasta: I love using penne for the way the sauce clings to each tube, but ziti or rigatoni works just as wonderfully.
• Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil to boost flavor in your sautéed onions and garlic.
• Small Onion: Finely dicing the onion really helps it melt into the sauce, so no surprise chunks—just smooth goodness.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh and finely minced garlic is key – it’s the heartbeat of this sauce.
• Tomato Paste: Go for a standard tomato paste, not the double concentrate, to balance acidity perfectly when cooked off.
• Heavy Cream: Also called double cream if you’re in the UK – this makes the sauce undeniably creamy and luxurious.
• Vodka: It’s the secret ingredient that deepens flavor without overpowering; you can sub chicken broth if you want no alcohol.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): A pinch can add just a little gentle heat if you like.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Season carefully as you go – this makes all the difference.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan melts beautifully and adds that signature cheesy kick.
• Pasta Cooking Water: You’ll want some reserved water to loosen the sauce so it coats the pasta perfectly.
• Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens things up at the end.

Variations

The beauty of this Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe is how easy it is to tweak. I love experimenting, and you should feel free to make it your own. Here are a few ways I’ve played around with it:

• Vegetarian: I sometimes skip the vodka and use chicken or veggie broth instead; it still tastes fantastic and is perfect for a lighter twist.
• Spicy Kick: Adding extra red pepper flakes gives it a lovely warming heat that my spice-loving friends adore.
• Protein Boost: Throw in grilled chicken strips or sautéed shrimp to turn it into a hearty meal.
• Dairy-Free Option: I’ve swapped cream for coconut cream once, and while it’s different, it made for a surprisingly tasty vegan-friendly version.

How to Make Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Penne Perfectly

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—you’ll want your water nicely salted like the sea, about 2 teaspoons kosher salt. Add the penne and cook al dente according to package directions, usually around 10 minutes. The key here is to drain it just before it’s fully soft because it’ll continue cooking in the sauce. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining; it’s pure magic for the sauce consistency later.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic with Love

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook gently until translucent and soft—about 5 minutes. This is where I discovered smaller dice vs. bigger chunks makes such a difference for a silky sauce. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant; be careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Build That Flavorful Sauce

Here’s the trick I love: add the tomato paste to the skillet and cook it down for around 2 minutes, stirring often. This step is crucial because it cuts the sourness and brings out a rich, mellow depth. Pour in the vodka (or broth, if you prefer), and let it simmer until it reduces slightly, around 3 minutes. Then, stir in heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Let the sauce bubble gently so all flavors meld together—about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce with Parmesan Love

Toss your cooked penne into the sauce along with a good handful of freshly grated parmesan. I find this step transforms the sauce from good to downright indulgent. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little reserved pasta cooking water, a splash at a time, until it gets beautifully creamy and coats every piece of pasta perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning, then sprinkle with a little extra parmesan and fresh parsley if you like.

How to Serve Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling this pasta with extra freshly grated parmesan and a handful of finely chopped parsley — it adds freshness and a little color contrast. Sometimes a twist of lemon zest on top brightens up the whole plate nicely, especially if you skipped the red pepper flakes.

Side Dishes

My favorite sides here are a crisp Caesar salad or simple garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Roasted veggies, like asparagus or broccoli, also make a lovely, lighter accompaniment when you want to keep things balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I like serving the Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta in individual shallow bowls with a swirl of extra cream and a sprig of parsley on top. Add a crack of fresh black pepper at the end for an elegant finish. Pair with a chilled glass of crisp white wine, and you’ve got a meal that feels restaurant-worthy but came from your own kitchen.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Because the sauce is cream-based, it thickens when chilled, which brings me to the next tip.

Freezing

Freezing this pasta is possible, but the cream sauce texture changes a bit and can split upon thawing. I usually recommend enjoying it fresh or within a couple days refrigerated. If you do freeze, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat with a splash of cream or milk.

Reheating

When reheating, add a small splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave. Stir frequently to bring back that silky smooth texture we all love.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe hits the sweet spot: simple enough for a busy weeknight yet indulgent enough to feel like a special occasion. I remember the first time I made it, thinking, “Wow, how is this so creamy and flavorful?” It quickly earned a top spot in our dinner rotation. So, grab your penne, get your vodka (or broth), and dive into this velvety, comforting dish. Your taste buds—and everyone you serve it to—will thank you!

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