Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices? Then look no further! This Carmine's Penne Alla Vodka recipe is your ticket to a delicious, comforting, and surprisingly easy dinner. It's the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of spicy tomato, making it a crowd-pleaser for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This easy recipe is a testament to the fact that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated to be incredibly satisfying. Let's dive into this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients: What You'll Need
This healthy meal requires readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous weeknight dinner.
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup vodka (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for a perfect penne alla vodka every time:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, vodka (if using), oregano, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Combine and Finish: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil leaves (if using) and serve immediately.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Penne Alla Vodka
- Don't skip the vodka: While optional, the vodka adds a unique depth of flavor that elevates the dish. If you're omitting it for any reason, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon juice for a touch of acidity.
- Use good quality Parmesan: The Parmesan cheese is a key ingredient, so use a good quality, freshly grated cheese for the best flavor.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. Conversely, add more for extra heat!
- Make it ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated before adding the pasta. This is a great option for meal prepping!
Variations: Get Creative in the Kitchen
- Add protein: Enhance this healthy meal with cooked chicken, sausage, shrimp, or even pancetta for a heartier dish.
- Vegetarian option: Omit the meat additions and add some sauteed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for a delicious vegetarian variation.
- Creamy variations: For an even creamier sauce, use a combination of heavy cream and half-and-half.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Carmine's Penne Alla Vodka recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that's perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture, vibrant flavor, and simple preparation make it an excellent addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes. Enjoy!