How to Make Penne with Vodka Sauce

Penne vodka (or penne with vodka sauce) is one of my all time favorite meals to make. It takes 45 minutes start to finish and it is just delicious. My version is the meatless vegetarian variety, though you can add proscuitto if you would like. Either way, it's always a crowd pleaser. It's great for dinner parties too.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1 lb. box penne macaroni
• 1 28 oz. can whole peeled imported Italian tomatoes
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
• large casserole dish
• 1/4 cup vodka
• 1 cup heavy cream or whipping cream
• grated romano cheese
• 1 Tbs butter
• 2 Tbs extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbs onion powder or 1 small onion, diced
• Large skillet

1. 
    

   Start to boil your water for the penne.

2. While the water is boiling, in a large skillet over medium heat(I use my chicken fryer for this), add the olive oil and butter.

3. 
    

   Add onions or onion powder. Saute until light brown.

4. 
    

   Blend tomatoes in blender. Add to skillet. Stir.

5. 
    

   Add crushed red pepper. Mix well.

6. 
    

   Simmer over medium heat for approximately 20-25 minutes. While this is simmering, your water should be boiling. Add pasta and cook to desired tenderness.

7. 
    

   When you pasta is done cooking, drain and place aside. Add a 1/4 cup of the water you cooked your macaroni in to the bowl with the pasta to stop them from sticking together. At this time the your are ready to add your vodka and cream to your sauce. Mix well.

8. Simmer for 5 minutes then add your pasta to your sauce and stir well to coat evenly. Pour into a casserole dish, sprinkly with grated cheese and serve.

9. 
    

   Serve immediately. Eat and enjoy with a loaf of Italian bread. Just delicious.

[Hapworth]

on 6/24/2008 Love your pictures. Recipe sound delicious.

[Limowreck]

on 6/20/2008 I have been looking for great recipes that use vodka! Thanks! This is going to be fun!