If there’s one pasta dish that never fails to impress, it’s a Penne Alla Vodka Recipe. This classic Italian-American dish is the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, all wrapped up in a silky tomato-based sauce. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make in just 20 minutes!
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a date-night special, or the perfect food picnic dish, this vodka pasta checks all the boxes. And let’s be honest—any excuse to cook with vodka is a good one. Don’t worry, the alcohol burns off, but it leaves behind a deep, rich taste that takes this cream pasta to another level.
If you love creamy, indulgent pasta dishes, you should definitely check out this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. But first, let’s dive into the ultimate Penne Alla Vodka Recipe.
A Brief History of Penne Alla Vodka
Where did Penne Alla Vodka Recipe come from? Well, that’s a bit of a mystery. Some say it originated in Italy in the 1980s, while others believe it was a genius marketing move by a vodka company trying to convince people to cook with their product. Either way, it quickly became a staple in Italian restaurants across the U.S.
What we do know is that vodka plays a unique role in this dish. It enhances the tomatoes’ natural sweetness and helps emulsify the sauce, making it lusciously smooth. It’s the kind of pasta you’d expect at a high-end restaurant, but you can easily whip it up at home with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Penne Alla Vodka Recipe
Restaurant-quality at home – It tastes like a dish from your favorite Italian spot, minus the price tag.
Quick & easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Minimal ingredients – You probably already have most of them in your kitchen.
Versatile – Add protein like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Perfect for a food picnic – Serve it warm or at room temperature for a fancy outdoor meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Penne Alla Vodka Recipe:
- Penne Pasta – Holds the sauce beautifully.
- Olive Oil & Butter – A mix of both gives the best flavor.
- Onion & Garlic – Essential for depth of flavor.
- Vodka – Any mid-range brand will do, just avoid bottom-shelf.
- Tomato Paste – Gives the sauce a rich, concentrated tomato flavor.
- Heavy Cream – For that ultra-creamy, indulgent texture.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty kick.
- Red Pepper Flakes – If you want to make it a spicy cheese pasta.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances all the flavors.
- Fresh Basil – For garnish and a pop of freshness.
How to Make Penne Alla Vodka
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the Vodka & Tomato Paste
Pour in the vodka and let it simmer for about 30 seconds to cook off the alcohol. Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a minute or two.
4. Stir in the Cream
Reduce the heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir well until the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.
5. Toss with Pasta & Finish
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated. Stir in parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
For another creamy pasta fix, try this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta.
Tips for the Best Vodka Pasta
Use good quality tomato paste – It makes all the difference.
Don’t skip the vodka – It enhances the flavors in a unique way.
Reserve some pasta water – Helps loosen the sauce if needed.
Want it spicier? Add extra red pepper flakes for a spicy cheese kick.
Serving Suggestions
Penne alla vodka is fantastic on its own, but here are some great pairings:
Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Simple Green Salad – Lightens up the meal.
Grilled Chicken or Shrimp – Adds protein and makes it heartier.
If you love pasta with hearty toppings, check out this Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef.
How to Store & Reheat
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of cream or pasta water.
Freezing: Not recommended as the sauce may separate.
FAQs About Penne Alla Vodka Recipe
Can I make it without vodka?
Yes, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor. Substitute with a splash of lemon juice or broth.
What type of vodka should I use?
A mid-range, neutral vodka works best—no need to splurge on top-shelf.
Can I add protein?
Absolutely! Chicken, shrimp, or pancetta are great options.
Is this a good picnic food idea?
Yes! Serve it slightly warm or at room temp for a food picnic favorite.
Penne Alla Vodka Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for spice
- ½ cup vodka
- ½ cup tomato paste preferably double-concentrated
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water if needed
- Fresh basil chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics – In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.
- Deglaze with Vodka – Pour in the vodka and let it simmer for about 30 seconds, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
- Add Tomato Paste – Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes until it deepens in color and caramelizes slightly.
- Stir in Cream – Reduce the heat to low, then slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously until smooth and well combined.
- Combine with Pasta – Add the drained penne to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Finish & Serve – Stir in parmesan cheese, season with salt and black pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add extra red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
- For added protein, mix in grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days but are best reheated on low heat with a splash of cream or pasta water.
- Avoid freezing as the cream-based sauce may separate.
- Pair this dish with Marry Me Chicken Pasta for a decadent meal.
This Penne Alla Vodka Recipe is creamy, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a dinner party, or a food picnic, this dish is guaranteed to impress. So grab your favorite pasta, pour some vodka (for the sauce, of course), and get cooking!
For more delicious pasta dishes, try this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta or this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta.
