Vodka-Infused Penne Pasta with Spicy Tomato Cream Sauce
Penne pasta tossed in a silky tomato cream sauce with a splash of vodka and a hint of heat from crushed red pepper flakes. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 35 minutes blends penne pasta, extra virgin olive oil, medium yellow onion, finely chopped into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 620 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/3 cup vodka
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz penne pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
- Step 3: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4: Add 1/3 cup vodka and simmer for 3 minutes to reduce slightly and cook off the alcohol.
- Step 5: Pour in 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Simmer the sauce over medium-low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 6: Reduce heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream until fully incorporated and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Step 7: Toss the drained penne pasta into the sauce along with 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil. Mix to coat evenly.
- Step 8: Serve hot topped with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Vodka-Infused Penne Pasta with Spicy Tomato Cream Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (10 min prep + 25 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Vodka-Infused Penne Pasta with Spicy Tomato Cream Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Vodka-Infused Penne Pasta with Spicy Tomato Cream Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Vodka-Infused Penne Pasta with Spicy Tomato Cream Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Vodka-Infused Penne Pasta with Spicy Tomato Cream Sauce?
Italian pasta like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
