Penne alla Vodka

Name: Penne alla Vodka
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 0.25 tsp Black Peppercorns; 0.5 cup Diced Onion; 3 tbsp Fresh Basil; 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley; 2 whole Garlic; 0.66 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 2 tbsp Olive Oil; 1 lb Penne Pasta; 0.25 tsp Red Pepper Flakes; 1 lb Rigatoni; 3 oz Seasoned Diced Pork; 3 tbsp Tomato Paste; 0.66 cup Vodka; 1 whole Whole Peeled Tomato

Dinner 🍽️Lunch 🥪 Italian 🇮🇹 High-Protein 💪Comfort-Food

Penne alla Vodka brings together crisp pancetta, a tomato-vodka sauce with gentle heat, and a lush swirl of cream for a glossy, well-emulsified coating on every bite. The balance of savory depth, subtle spice, and fresh herbs makes it an inviting weeknight dinner that feels special without extra fuss.

Prep10 mins
Cook20 mins
Serves6
DifficultyEasy

1

Assemble all the ingredients.
2

Set a large pot of salted water over high heat to bring it to a boil. Transfer the tomatoes to a medium bowl and crush them well with your hands, or chop them in a food processor. Set aside.
3

While the water heats, make the sauce: Heat the oil and pancetta in a large saucepan or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the pancetta is crisp, about 5 minutes. Add the onion and cook, stirring constantly, until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and crushed red pepper and cook for 1 minute. Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring often, until it takes on a slight brownish color, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the vodka and cook until reduced by at least half. Stir in the reserved tomatoes and their juices and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat and simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes.
4

While the sauce reduces, add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions until slightly firm, 11 to 12 minutes.
5

When the sauce has reduced, stir in the heavy cream and pepper and cook for 3 minutes, stirring often. Stir in 1/3 cup cheese, parsley, basil, and pasta until well combined. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
6

Sprinkle with the remaining cheese and more herbs if desired.
7

Serve and enjoy.