Are you ready to take your pasta game to the next level? Look no further than penne alla vodka, a classic Italian dish that combines the creamiest vodka-infused sauce with al dente penne pasta. But why settle for just one way of making this beloved recipe when you can have 17 more?!
In this article, we’re going to mix things up and give you a variety of creamy penne alla vodka recipes with a twist. From classic combinations like pancetta and parmesan to more adventurous pairings like grilled chicken and roasted garlic, there’s something for everyone on this list.
So grab your pasta and get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Italy. Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just looking for some inspiration for a quick weeknight dinner, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Classic Penne alla Vodka with Fresh Basil
This Italian-inspired pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining the creaminess of vodka-infused tomato sauce with the brightness of fresh basil. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vodka
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add crushed tomatoes, vodka, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Toss cooked penne with sauce; top with chopped basil and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Penne alla Vodka with Red Pepper Flakes
This classic Italian-American dish gets a bold kick from the addition of red pepper flakes, adding depth and heat to its creamy vodka sauce. Perfect for pasta lovers who like a little spice in their lives!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, vodka, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with the spicy vodka sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Pancetta and Parmesan
This recipe combines the richness of pancetta, the tanginess of vodka, and the nuttiness of Parmesan to create a decadent penne dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) vodka
– 1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add vodka to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until reduced slightly.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Combine cooked penne pasta with the vodka sauce. Toss with crispy pancetta and Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian Penne alla Vodka with Spinach and Mushrooms
Discover the creamy, flavorful combination of penne pasta, vodka-infused tomato sauce, sautéed mushrooms, and wilted spinach. This vegetarian take on a classic Italian dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in vodka, crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring sauce to simmer; reduce heat to low and let it cook while you prepare the spinach.
7. In a separate pan, wilt fresh spinach leaves with a pinch of salt over medium-high heat.
8. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom-tomato sauce, and wilted spinach. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Penne alla Vodka with Grilled Chicken
This classic Italian-American dish gets a boost from the smoky flavor of grilled chicken, paired with a rich and creamy vodka-infused sauce. Serve over freshly cooked penne pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vodka-infused heavy cream (see note)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
4. Add vodka-infused heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in reserved pasta water and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Slice grilled chicken and serve over creamy pasta, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Roasted Garlic and Herbs
This creamy and aromatic pasta dish combines the classic Italian flavors of vodka-infused tomato sauce, roasted garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 3 cloves of garlic
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup vodka (or to taste)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast garlic cloves for 30 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add roasted garlic, vodka, crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with the sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Seafood Penne alla Vodka with Shrimp and Scallops
This seafood penne alla vodka recipe is a flavorful and satisfying twist on the classic pasta dish. The combination of succulent shrimp, scallops, and penne pasta in a rich vodka tomato sauce will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6-8 sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup (250ml) vodka-infused tomato sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and scallops; cook until pink and opaque, about 5 minutes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes and vodka-infused tomato sauce; stir to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta with seafood mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives
This classic Italian dish gets a flavorful twist with the addition of sun-dried tomatoes and green olives. The creamy vodka sauce coats the penne pasta perfectly, making it a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vodka sauce
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and vodka sauce. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked penne pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and green olives to the skillet. Toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten-Free Penne alla Vodka with Zucchini Noodles
Experience the classic Italian dish with a healthier twist by substituting traditional penne pasta with zucchini noodles. This recipe combines the creamy flavors of vodka sauce with the added nutritional benefits of a low-carb, gluten-free alternative.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound zucchinis
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Spiralize zucchinis into noodles.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, vodka, and tomato paste. Stir well.
5. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Toss zucchini noodles with the vodka sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Crispy Prosciutto and Arugula
Penne alla Vodka with Crispy Prosciutto and Arugula: A creamy, savory, and crunchy Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of vodka-infused tomato sauce with crispy prosciutto and peppery arugula.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 4 cups arugula leaves
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, vodka, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer while cooking prosciutto in the oven until crispy (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Combine cooked pasta with tomato sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed. Top with crispy prosciutto and arugula leaves. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Caramelized Onions and Goat Cheese
Penne alla Vodka with Caramelized Onions and Goat Cheese: A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the flavors of vodka-infused tomato sauce, sweet caramelized onions, and tangy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vodka-infused tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Stir in vodka-infused tomato sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked penne pasta, caramelized onion mixture, and crumbled goat cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Italian Sausage and Peppers
A classic Italian-American dish that combines the rich flavors of vodka-infused tomato sauce, spicy Italian sausage, and sweet bell peppers. This recipe is a hearty and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add sliced bell peppers, garlic, crushed tomatoes, vodka, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld together.
5. Combine cooked pasta with reserved pasta water and add to the skillet. Toss until coated in the sauce.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Pesto
This rich and flavorful pasta dish combines the classic vodka sauce with the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes and the brightness of basil pesto. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vodka sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, combine vodka sauce and roasted cherry tomatoes. Stir in basil pesto and reserved pasta water. Simmer for 5 minutes over medium heat.
4. Combine cooked penne pasta with the sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Creamy Ricotta and Lemon Zest
This classic Italian-American dish gets a creamy twist with the addition of ricotta cheese and a bright, citrusy kick from lemon zest. With its rich flavors and velvety texture, this penne alla vodka is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup vodka sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in vodka sauce and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook while you prepare the ricotta mixture.
4. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet with vodka sauce. Toss until well coated, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Stir in ricotta mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Smoked Salmon and Dill
This recipe combines the richness of vodka-infused tomato sauce with the bold flavors of smoked salmon and fresh dill. The result is a creamy, indulgent pasta dish perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vodka-infused tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried dill weed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in vodka-infused tomato sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and add flaked smoked salmon, heavy cream, and dried dill weed. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Artichoke Hearts and Capers
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired pasta dish that combines the classic vodka sauce with the savory taste of artichoke hearts and capers. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup vodka-infused tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add artichoke hearts and capers; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in vodka-infused tomato sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce; toss to coat.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Butternut Squash and Sage
This autumnal take on the Italian-American favorite combines the rich flavors of butternut squash, sage, and Parmesan cheese with the spicy kick of vodka-infused tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vodka-infused tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add vodka-infused tomato sauce and heavy cream. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in roasted squash, butter, and sage. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Truffle Oil and Parmesan Shavings
Elevate the classic Italian dish with the earthy flavor of truffle oil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. This recipe is a game-changer for pasta lovers!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Truffle oil for serving
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, vodka, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tomato sauce. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Serve hot, drizzled with truffle oil and topped with parmesan shavings and fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
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