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A bowl of creamy penne pasta with a bright orange tomato vodka sauce and fresh basil

Penne Alla Vodka

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic , minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 6 ounces tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup vodk a
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chiffonade

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne according to package directions until al dente.
  • Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil.
  • Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly for 3 to 5 minutes until the paste darkens to a deep brick red.
  • Pour in the vodka and stir to deglaze the pan; simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the liquid is reduced by half.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Add the cooked pasta and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly.
  • Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.