Penne Alla Vodka Recipe
As a passionate home cook, I absolutely love whipping up Penne alla Vodka—it’s a classic dish that never fails to impress! I decided to switch things up by substituting smoked bacon for the traditional pancetta, and let me tell you, it adds a unique smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish. The creamy tomato sauce coats the penne perfectly, with the rich flavors melding beautifully thanks to the vodka. Each bite is a delightful balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet, enhanced by the smoky undertones of the bacon. It’s a comforting yet sophisticated meal that’s sure to please anyone at your dinner table!
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 -4 cloves garlic, chopped finely
- 1 cup thinly sliced and chopped Bacon, Pancetta, or Prosciut
- 1 (28 ounces) can of plain tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup vodka-only good stuff
- salt and pepper
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 lb penne pasta
- freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese to taste
Directions
- melt butter in saucepan and add garlic to brown
- add pancetta or bacon to render off the fat
- combine with tomato sauce and let simmer
- add salt and pepper
- optional red pepper flakes to taste
- add heavy cream and stir constantly for a few minutes
- stir in vodka and simmer until the alcohol smell dissipates
- simmer until thickened
- place on your favorite pasta and top with Parmesan
- Enjoy!
Tips: To perfect your pasta dishes, there are several key tips to keep in mind. First, always use a generous amount of salted water when boiling pasta; this enhances the flavor of the noodles. Cook your pasta until it’s al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it, as it will continue to cook a bit more when combined with the sauce. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta cooking water before draining; this starchy liquid can be added to your sauce to help it adhere better to the pasta. Finally, make sure to combine the pasta and sauce over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. With these tips, your pasta dishes will reach new heights of deliciousness!
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