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Classic Penne alla Vodka
5 from 18 votes

Classic Penne alla Vodka

This Classic Penne alla Vodka is just that:  Classic, vintage and perfectly Italian-American at it best.  Make the Homemade Marinara to ensure the best taste you could ever imagine. This is pasta comfort heaven. 

Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
50 mins
Total Time
1 hr 10 mins
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 296 kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ½ onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ cup basil fresh, chopped
  • 3 tablespoon parsley fresh, chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (use ½ teaspoon for more heat)
  • ⅓ cup vodka
  • 4 cups marinara sauce click link below for complete recipe, homemade
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 12 oz penne pasta dried
  • 1 cup Romano cheese
  • kosher salt
  • black pepper

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Make the homemade marinara sauce and set aside (can be made up to 3 days in advance, stored in the refrigerator). 
  2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  3. When the oil is just starting to smoke, add the onions and lower the heat to medium.  Cook until starting to soften, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
  5. Add the basil, parsley, and red peppers (to taste), cooking and stirring for about 30 seconds.
  6. Remove the pan from the heat and carefully add the vodka (stand back when doing this).  If the vodka does not flame, very carefully light a long match and ignite.  (again, stand back).  
  7. Once flame has died down, return the pan to the heat and add the marinara sauce and simmer for about 5 to 6 minutes.
  8. Add the cream and bring to a boil.  Boil for 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  9. Meanwhile, cook the penne in a salted pot of water for 8 minutes, or until al dente.
  10. Drain the pasta.  Bring the sauce to a simmer again and stir in ½ cup of the Romano cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
  11. Add the pasta to the sauce and mix well over low heat until penne is fully coated. Serve with remaining cheese on the side.

Nutrition Information

Calories 296kcal (15%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4 people

Amount Per Serving

Calories 296

% Daily Value*

Calories 296kcal 15%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.