Easy Homemade Penne Alla Vodka

If you’re looking for a simple pasta dinner that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant, this Easy Homemade Penne Alla Vodka is the recipe to make. A creamy tomato sauce, a splash of vodka, fresh basil, and plenty of Parmesan come together in about 30 minutes for a rich, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or date nights at home. The vodka enhances the tomato flavor without leaving behind a strong alcohol taste, creating a silky, flavorful sauce that coats every piece of pasta.

Jump to Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 3-4 servings

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Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup tomato paste
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
• ¼ cup vodka
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, thinly sliced (optional)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

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How to Make Penne Alla Vodka

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Sauté the Onion

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.

3. Add the Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.

4. Deglaze with Vodka

Pour in the vodka and allow it to simmer for about 30 seconds to cook off the alcohol while lifting up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.

5. Add the Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste until it’s fully combined with the onion mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, to deepen the tomato flavor and remove any raw taste.

6. Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the heavy whipping cream. Mix until the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and evenly colored.

7. Season the Sauce

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the sliced fresh basil if using and allow everything to warm together for another minute.

8. Toss Everything Together

Add the drained penne to the skillet and toss until every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

9. Serve

Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a little extra basil before serving.

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Variations & What to Serve with Penne Alla Vodka

Delicious Additions:

• Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Stir in cooked shrimp for a restaurant-style seafood version.
• Brown Italian sausage and mix it into the sauce for a heartier meal.
• Add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Toss in fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking until wilted.
• Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Swap penne for rigatoni, cavatappi, or fettuccine if that’s what you have on hand.

What to Serve With It:

• Garlic bread Cheesy breadsticks
• Caesar salad
• Simple garden salad with Italian dressing
• Roasted broccoli
• Roasted asparagus
• Bruschetta Caprese salad

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Final Thoughts

This Easy Homemade Penne Alla Vodka proves that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make an incredibly satisfying meal. The creamy tomato sauce is rich without being overwhelming, while the vodka enhances the flavors and gives the sauce its signature smooth finish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or enjoying a cozy dinner for two with leftovers, this recipe is an easy way to bring restaurant-quality pasta to your own table. Pair it with warm garlic bread and a fresh salad for a meal everyone will ask for again.