Our full recipe guide on how to make Penne Pasta one of the most popular pasta dishes in the world.
Penne pasta is a versatile dish that can be prepared with various sauces. Here, I’ll guide you through a classic Penne alla Vodka recipe, which is beloved for its creamy tomato sauce with a vodka kick. I’ll also provide some tips for making the dish and an estimate of the calorie content.
This Penne alla Vodka recipe offers a delightful blend of creamy texture and robust flavors, making it a satisfying dish for any pasta lover.
Read here how to make Spaghetti Bolognese and Spaghetti Carbonara
Read here best Italian food, vegetarian food in Italy, best drinks in Italy and best breakfast in Italy
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How to Make Penne Pasta
Penne Pasta Recipe Ingredients
Penne Pasta: 400 grams (about 14 ounces)
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
Crushed Tomatoes: 400 grams (about 14 ounces) can
Vodka: 1/4 cup
Heavy Cream: 1 cup
Salt and Pepper: to taste
Red Pepper Flakes: a pinch (optional for heat)
Fresh Basil: a few leaves, chopped for garnish
Parmesan Cheese: for serving
Step By Step How to Make Penne Pasta
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water for adjusting the sauce consistency later.
Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant. Add the vodka to the pan and allow it to reduce by half, which will take about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Finish the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until the sauce is smooth and evenly pink. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta thoroughly.
Serve
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Tips To Make Penne Pasta
Ensure not to overcook the penne. It should be al dente, meaning it has a slight chew to it. This texture helps the pasta hold up well when mixed with the sauce. Let the vodka reduce sufficiently to cook off the alcohol flavor while concentrating the sauce for a deeper taste.
Add the cream at a low heat to prevent it from curdling. Stir continuously as you pour. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper before adding the pasta to the sauce. The red pepper flakes are optional but recommended if you enjoy a bit of spice.
How Many Calories Have Penne Pasta
A serving of Penne alla Vodka typically contains around 600-700 calories. The primary contributors to the calorie count are the pasta, vodka, and heavy cream. Adjusting the amount of cream or substituting with a lighter cream can help reduce the calorie content if desired.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.