Creamy Penne alla Vodka

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Looking for a quick, elegant meal? This Creamy Penne alla Vodka is just what you need! Ready in no time, this dish features a luscious vodka-infused tomato cream sauce that perfectly coats every bite of penne. It’s a deliciously indulgent pasta that will impress any guest.

Ingredients:

– 12 ounces penne pasta

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

– 1 cup vodka

– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

– 1 cup heavy cream

– Salt and pepper, to taste

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

– Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.

3. Add the vodka: Carefully pour in the vodka and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld.

4. Simmer with tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has slightly thickened.

5. Add the cream: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir until the cream is fully incorporated into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Combine with pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss until the pasta is evenly coated.

7. Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again to combine. Let it cook for another minute or so until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

8. Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the creamy penne alla vodka with thinly sliced fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

9. Serve and enjoy: Serve the creamy penne alla vodka immediately, and enjoy the rich and flavorful dish!

Feel free to adjust the spice level and creaminess of the sauce according to your taste preferences. Buon appetito!