Creamy and bright vodka sauce and penne are a classic combo, but rigatoni works too!

Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

Growing up, I ordered penne alla vodka every time my family dined out.

I love vodka sauce because it is rich and creamy with a touch of sweetness.

Penne alla Vodka in a Bowl over a Cloth Napkin, and in Background, Another Bowl of Pasta and Cutting Board with Basil and Cheese

Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

I also love how the sauce gets trapped inside the penne and bursts out in my mouth!

I find myself reaching for foods that are familiar and consistent whether dining out or entertaining at home.

I hope this becomes a go-to pasta for you too!

Penne alla Vodka in a Plate with a Spoon over a Kitchen Towel

Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

What Is Vodka Sauce?

Even those who dont deem themselves vodka lovers will like the flavor of this sauce.

Vodka sauce is made with tomatoes, heavy cream, and vodka.

Penne alla Vodka Recipe in a Plate with a Spoon

Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

Its lightly sweet and ever so tangy.

The vodka provides a clean, subtle taste once the alcohol is cooked offreduce it by about half.

It helps brighten the tomatoes.

Pasta Boiling in a Pot of Water on Stove for Penne alla Vodka Recipe

Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

The short answer is yes andhere is why.

I use Absolut Vodka or Titos Handmade Vodka.

Vodka sauce can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge or for weeks in the freezer.

Toast Garlic and Chili Peppers in Skillet on Stove for Penne alla Vodka

Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

If you are worried about the sauce breaking once thawed, add the heavy cream right before serving.

Reheat the sauce on the stove top over low heat while you cook the pasta right before serving.

Good-quality pre-grated Pecorino works just as well as grating it yourself.

Vodka in Skillet with Garlic and Chili Peppers for Penne alla Vodka

Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

Plus, it will save you some prep time.

Set it over high heat and bring it to a boil.

Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.

Crushed Tomatoes Added to Skillet for Penne alla Vodka

Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

Drain the pasta into a colander set in the sink.

Heat a large saute pan over medium-low heat.

Cook until soft, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, about 4 minutes.

Crushed Heavy Cream Added to Skillet for Penne alla Vodka

Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

Pull the pan off the heat and add the vodka.

Youre doing this off the heat to avoid a flare-up, especially if you have a gas stove.

The vodka should be reduced by half.

Blend Penne alla Vodka Sauce Using Immersion Blender

Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes until the raw tomato flavor cooks off.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the butter and heavy cream.

You may need to transfer the sauce into a narrower container to do this.

Penne, Basil, and Cheese Added to Vodka Sauce in Skillet

Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

You could use a blender instead.

Transfer the sauce back into the pan and simmer until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.

Penne alla Vodka in Skillet over Stove

Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

Add the drained pasta into the sauce.

Sprinkle in 1/4 cup Pecorino, the basil, and parsley.

Stir the pasta in the vodka sauce until evenly coated.

Penne alla Vodka in a Bowl Garnished with Basil over a Cloth Napkin. In Background, Another Bowl of Pasta and Cutting Board with Basil.

Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

Serve with more cheese sprinkled on top.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or cream.

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