Vodka-Infused Penne with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Al dente penne tossed in a smooth sun-dried tomato cream sauce enriched with a splash of vodka for subtle warmth and depth. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 30 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 480 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 tsp for pasta water plus 1/2 tsp for sauce salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 2 tsp salt and 12 oz penne pasta. Cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente, then drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Step 2: While pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 2 minutes until garlic is fragrant.
- Step 3: Carefully add 1/4 cup vodka to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the alcohol aroma dissipates.
- Step 4: Lower heat to medium-low and stir in 3/4 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Cook for 4-5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Step 5: Toss the drained penne into the sauce along with 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time until desired consistency is reached. Serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Vodka-Infused Penne with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 30 minutes (10 min prep + 20 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 Sun-Dried 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 Sun-Dried 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 Sun-Dried 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 Sun-Dried 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.
