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Easy 30-Minute Penne Alla Vodka (Creamy, Homemade Pink Sauce!)

Easy 30-Minute Penne Alla Vodka (Creamy, Homemade Pink Sauce!)

The absolute best Easy 30-Minute Penne Alla Vodka recipe! Al dente pasta tossed in a rich, velvety pink tomato and cream sauce. Perfect weeknight dinner!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course pasta
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4
Calories 540 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb dry penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup plain vodka
  • 14 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil torn
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil, then add tomato paste and red pepper flakes, cooking 3 minutes until caramelized.
  • Deglaze with vodka and simmer several minutes to cook off the alcohol.
  • Add crushed tomatoes and simmer 10-15 minutes until thickened.
  • Boil penne until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  • Reduce sauce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, and warm gently without boiling.
  • Toss drained pasta into the sauce with a splash of reserved pasta water.
  • Top with parmesan and fresh basil before serving.

Notes

  • Caramelize the tomato paste for a full 3 minutes; this step builds essential depth of flavor.
  • Always save at least 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining, since it helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
  • Use freshly grated parmesan, not pre-shredded, for a smooth, clump-free sauce.