Penne Alla Vodka

Penne Alla Vodka

from delish.com
10 min

We've perfected our best-ever vodka sauce in this penne alla vodka with a few easy tips and vital ingredients—learn how to make it in this easy recipe.

Ingredients

  • 3 tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 1 shallot, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 
  • 1/2 c. tomato paste
  • 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 tbsp. vodka
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 lb. tubed pasta, such as penne or rigatoni
  • 1/2 c. heavy cream
  • 1/2 c. finely grated Parmesan, divided, plus more for serving
  • Fresh basil leaves, for serving

Directions

  1. 1

    In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add shallot and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until softened, 4 to 5 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add tomato paste and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring frequently, until paste has coated shallots and garlic and is beginning to darken, about 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add vodka and stir to incorporate, scraping up any browned bits from bottom of pot. Remove from heat.

  4. 4

    Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta, stirring occasionally, until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 2 c. pasta water.

  5. 5

    Return sauce to medium heat and add cream and 1/4 c. pasta water, stirring to combine. Add half of Parmesan and stir until melted. Remove from heat and stir in cooked pasta. Fold in remaining Parmesan, adding more pasta water (about 1 Tbsp. at a time) if the sauce is looking dry; season with salt, if needed.

  6. 6

    Divide pasta among bowls. Top with Parmesan and basil.