If you're a foodie (and a cocktail lover) like I am, you'll love this easy homemade recipe that combines pasta and vodka! But not just any vodka, my go-to vodka of choice that is quite simply the best. This easy penne ala vodka pasta recipe is worth second helpings thanks to Tito's vodka-laced cream, lots of great pepper, and of course, lots of tangy, hearty tomato sauce. Bon appetit!
The Perfect Penne Ala Vodka Featuring Tito's Vodka
Most folks are familiar with using wine to add depth of flavor to dishes when cooking. Vodka does something entirely different. It acts as a solvent which dissolves aromatics in herbs and other flavorful ingredients, that wouldn't be possible with just water. Vodka is also the secret ingredient in several sauces, as it dissolves both fat and water, which keeps sauces from separating.
Note: Adding too much vodka can overpower a dish, so it's important to keep your vodka ratios in check when cooking with this spirit.
I love cooking pasta recipes at home. It's always been my favorite comfort food. This homemade dish is great as a quick family dinner and special enough for company! Rich vodka cream with tangy and sweet tomato sauce is like peanut butter and jelly in this mouthwatering pasta dish. Here's how I made it:
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 cup Tito's Vodka
- 2 cups tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 1 pinch ground black pepper
- 1 lb. cooked penne
- Chopped parsley (optional)
- Grated cheese (optional)
Step 1: Cook Pasta
Cook pasta according to the package instructions, and set it aside while you prepare the sauce. I like to cook it 2 minutes under the package instructions because we'll be finishing off the cooking with the sauce after we're done (and nobody likes overcooked pasta).
Step 2: Saute Garlic and Onion
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Saute garlic and onion for about one minute, giving it a few stirs for even cooking.
Step 3: Add Butter and Tito's Vodka
Add 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir until butter is fully melted and sizzling. Then, add 1 cup of Tito's Vodka, stir, and bring to a boil.
Step 4: Add Tomato Puree
Add 2 cups of tomato puree. Stir well.
Step 5: Stir In the Heavy Cream
Add 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Add the Rest of the Ingredients
Add 1 pinch of red pepper flakes, ground black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir the mixture, then simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 7: Add Cooked Penne Pasta
Add the cooked penne pasta, toss to combine, and let the sauce reheat the penne for 2 minutes. Once the noodles are fully coated with sauce, transfer it to your serving dish and it's ready to serve.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Garnish your tasty penne vodka dish with your favorite herb and cheese. Serve and enjoy!
Watch the full video here:
Serve hot and garnish it with parsley and grated cheese, and voila! It's ready to eat with a refreshing cocktail. While this dish is vegetarian-friendly, you can turn this dish into a meat lovers dream by adding ground Italian sausage, bacon bits, or diced chicken.
Will you give this easy penne ala Tito's vodka recipe a try this weekend? Let us know how it went in the comments section below.
Up Next: Incredibly Festive Tito's and Clementine Glazed Salmon
Don’t forget to keep in touch, foodies!
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter!
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on November 6, 2017, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.
