Vodka-Infused Penne with Spicy Tomato Cream Sauce
Penne pasta tossed in a smooth, spicy tomato cream sauce enriched with vodka for a vibrant and silky texture. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 40 minutes blends penne pasta, olive oil, garlic cloves, minced 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 520 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 olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 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 olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 3: Pour in 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree and simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Step 4: Carefully add 1/4 cup vodka, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 7 minutes to cook off alcohol and deepen flavor.
- Step 5: Reduce heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook for 3 minutes until sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Step 6: Toss the cooked penne pasta into the sauce along with 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to coat evenly and warm through for 2 minutes before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Vodka-Infused Penne with Spicy Tomato Cream Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 40 minutes (15 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 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 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 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 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.
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