Penne alla Vodka Sauce is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines the richness of creamy vodka sauce with the satisfying bite of penne pasta. Kathy Kochiss Mongillo from Trumbull, Connecticut, shares her personal experience of introducing this Italian classic to her family and passing the taste test with flying colors. Now, it has become a family favorite recipe, often doubled to accommodate entertaining guests.
The velvety vodka sauce is made with a delightful combination of butter, pancetta, tomato sauce, vodka, and heavy whipping cream. These ingredients come together to create a luscious and flavorful sauce that coats the penne pasta perfectly. Topped with shredded Parmesan cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy both children and adults alike.
In just 10 minutes of preparation and 45 minutes of cooking, you can create a generous amount of Penne alla Vodka Sauce that will leave everyone craving for more. This recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional pasta dishes and showcases the versatility of Italian cuisine.
INGREDIENTS:
- ½ cup butter, cubed
- 4 ounces sliced pancetta, chopped
- 8 cans (8 ounces each) no-salt-added tomato sauce
- ⅓ cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Hot cooked penne pasta
- Shredded Parmesan cheese
PREPARATION:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped pancetta and cook until slightly crisp. Stir in the tomato sauce and vodka.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens, stirring occasionally. Add the heavy whipping cream and heat through. Serve the sauce over hot cooked penne pasta and sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese.
YIELD: Makes 7½ cups
PREP/COOK TIME: 10 minutes of preparation, 45 minutes of cooking
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Use a large skillet or saucepan to accommodate the sauce and allow for easy stirring.
- Be sure to cook the pancetta until it becomes slightly crisp, as this will enhance the texture and flavor of the sauce.
- Simmer the sauce uncovered to allow it to thicken and develop its flavors.
- Stir the sauce occasionally during the simmering process to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet or saucepan.
- Adjust the cooking time if you prefer a thicker or thinner consistency for the sauce. Simmer for a longer time for a thicker sauce or reduce the simmering time for a lighter sauce.
TIPS:
- Serve Penne alla Vodka Sauce with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Customize the level of spiciness by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the pancetta and use vegetable broth or water to thin the sauce if desired.
- Garnish the dish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness and color.
- Leftover Penne alla Vodka Sauce can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the desired consistency.
Penne alla Vodka Sauce is a delightful Italian-American dish that brings together the richness of vodka-infused tomato sauce and the comforting appeal of penne pasta. Kathy Kochiss Mongillo from Trumbull, Connecticut, shares her personal experience of introducing this beloved recipe to her family, and it quickly became a family favorite that is often doubled for entertaining.
The sauce, made with butter, pancetta, tomato sauce, vodka, and heavy whipping cream, creates a velvety and flavorful coating for the penne pasta. Each bite is a harmonious blend of creamy sauce and al dente pasta, while the Parmesan cheese adds a savory touch.
In just under an hour, you can prepare a generous amount of Penne alla Vodka Sauce that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. This dish offers a unique twist on traditional Italian pasta dishes and showcases the versatility of Italian cuisine.
Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal for your family or hosting a dinner party, Penne alla Vodka Sauce is a crowd-pleasing option that combines simplicity with indulgence. The creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta make for a comforting and satisfying dining experience.
Embrace the popularity and deliciousness of Penne alla Vodka Sauce and indulge in a dish that has gained popularity for its rich flavors and satisfying textures. Share this recipe with your loved ones and create lasting memories around the dinner table.
