Penne ala Vodka Cream Sauce is delicious because it combines rich, tangy tomato flavors with a luxurious, creamy texture. The vodka enhances the tomato’s natural sweetness, while sautéed garlic and bacon adds smokiness and depth. Topped with fresh basil and shaved parmesan, this balance of flavors and textures makes it both comforting and satisfying.
Penne Ala Vodka
Ingredients
- 24 oz can of marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- 1/2 cup yellow onion minced
- 3 slices bacon diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese shaved or shredded
- 1 tbsp fresh basil chopped
- 1 lb penne pasta
Instructions
- Add bacon and 2 tbsp olive oil to sauce pan over medium high heat. Cook until browned.
- Add (1/2 cup yellow onion, 3 cloves garlic, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes) to pan and cook until the tomato paste begins to turn dark brown.
- Deglaze pan with 1/2 cup vodka and cook off alcohol. about 5 min.
- Add 24 oz can of marinara sauce and 1/4 cup parmesan cheese to the pan and let simmer for 30 min
- Stir in 2/3 cup heavy cream and set sauce aside covered.
- Prepare 1 lb penne pasta al dente per instructions.
- Toss pasta, sauce, and basil and put into a serving dish. top with more basil and parmesan sheese