Penne With Vodka & Spicy Tomato-Cream Sauce

This Penne with Vodka & Spicy Tomato-Cream Sauce is a comforting yet sophisticated Italian classic. The dish features a luxurious sauce made from crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and a splash of vodka, which helps to unlock the deep flavors of the tomatoes while adding a subtle fruity note. Infused with garlic, olive oil, and a kick of crushed red pepper, it offers a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. The pasta is tossed directly in the skillet, allowing it to absorb the velvety sauce. It is an ideal weeknight dinner that feels special enough for guests, delivering bold flavors and a smooth, satisfying texture in every bite.

Cooking Method: Boiling, Stewing

Cuisine: Italian

Courses: Sauces & Condiments

Difficulty: Advanced

Servings: 6

Calories: 356.1

Dietary: Vegetarian

Description

This Penne with Vodka & Spicy Tomato-Cream Sauce is a comforting yet sophisticated Italian classic. The dish features a luxurious sauce made from crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and a splash of vodka, which helps to unlock the deep flavors of the tomatoes while adding a subtle fruity note. Infused with garlic, olive oil, and a kick of crushed red pepper, it offers a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. The pasta is tossed directly in the skillet, allowing it to absorb the velvety sauce. It is an ideal weeknight dinner that feels special enough for guests, delivering bold flavors and a smooth, satisfying texture in every bite.

Ingredients

1/4 cup Extra-virgin olive oil
4 cloves Fresh garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste)
1 28-oz can Crushed tomatoes or tomatoes in puree
1 lb Dried Italian tubular pasta (such as penne)
2 tbsp Vodka
1 cup Heavy cream
1/4 cup Fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, snipped
3 tbsp Salt (for pasta water)
to taste Sea salt

Directions

1
In a large skillet that can accommodate the pasta later, combine olive oil, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt.
2
Cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, just until the garlic turns golden but not brown, about 2 to 3 minutes.
3
Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet. If using whole canned tomatoes, place a food mill over the skillet and puree them directly into the pan.
4
Stir to blend and simmer, uncovered, until the sauce begins to thicken, about 15 minutes.
5
Meanwhile, in a large pot, bring 6 quarts of water to a rolling boil.
6
Add 3 tablespoons of salt and the penne, stirring to prevent sticking.
7
Cook until the pasta is tender but firm to the bite (al dente).
8
Drain the pasta thoroughly.
9
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce and toss to coat.
10
Pour in the vodka and toss again, then stir in the heavy cream.
11
Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let sit for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the sauce.
12
Uncover, add the fresh parsley, and toss once more to combine.
13
Transfer to warmed shallow soup bowls and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 356.1kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 15.8g25%
Saturated Fat 2.2g12%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 25.5mg2%
Total Carbohydrate 49.5g17%
Dietary Fiber 3.2g13%
Sugars 1.5g
Protein 9.6g20%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Traditionally, cheese is not served with this dish, but you may add grated Parmigiano-Reggiano if desired.

For a vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with a thick coconut milk or cashew cream.

If you do not have a food mill, you can use an immersion blender to puree the tomatoes in the skillet or transfer them to a standard blender.

Do not let the garlic burn; keep the heat moderate to maintain a sweet, aromatic flavor rather than a bitter one.

Keywords: penne, vodka sauce, italian pasta, tomato cream, spicy pasta, garlic, red pepper flakes, heavy cream, weeknight dinner, pasta recipe, comfort food, simmered sauce, olive oil, fresh parsley, crushed tomatoes

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/penne-with-vodka-spicy-tomato-cream-sauce/