Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting yet elegant dinner that comes together quickly, you’re going to love this Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe. It’s rich, velvety, and packed with flavors that somehow feel both nostalgic and fancy all at once. I absolutely love how this turns out every time I make it, and I’m pretty sure you’ll find it a new favorite in your weeknight rotation too.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The star of this Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe lies in the simple, classic ingredients that come together in a way that’s greater than the sum of its parts. I like to use good-quality olive oil and fresh garlic to amp up the aroma, and don’t skip on real Parmesan — it really makes all the difference.

• Penne or Ziti: I usually reach for penne rigate because the ridges hold the sauce so well, but any tubular pasta works.
• Salt: Use kosher or cooking salt for boiling the pasta; it seasons the pasta right from the start.
• Olive Oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness; extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor.
• Onion: Finely diced small for a delicate base that melts into the sauce without overpowering.
• Garlic: Minced finely to infuse the oil and tomato paste with that classic savory punch.
• Tomato Paste: Using a whole tub means no measuring and zero waste—plus, cooking it first removes raw sourness.
• Heavy Cream (Double Cream): This makes the sauce decadently creamy – don’t substitute with milk or it won’t have the same richness.
• Vodka: Brings subtle complexity; if you prefer, chicken broth works as a non-alcoholic alternative.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Just a pinch adds a gentle kick but feel free to leave it out if you’re not a fan of heat.
• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked tastes best to highlight all the flavors.
• Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan is a game-changer here — I add a cup to the sauce and more for serving.
• Pasta Cooking Water: Starchy pasta water is your secret weapon to get the sauce silky and perfectly clingy.
• Parsley (Optional): A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds freshness and color before serving.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own depending on what’s in the fridge or on my mood. Don’t hesitate to experiment—this recipe really welcomes customization.

• Vegetarian: Replace vodka with vegetable broth to keep it meat-free but still flavorful. I sometimes add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture.
• Spicy Kick: When I want more heat, I increase red pepper flakes or toss in a diced jalapeño during the onion sauté.
• Protein Boost: Adding grilled chicken or crispy pancetta makes this a heartier meal. I’ve had great results gently folding in cooked shrimp too.
• Herbs: Fresh basil alongside parsley brings a bright and sweet aroma that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

How to Make Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—you want it to taste like the sea. Add your penne and cook until just shy of al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions) because it’ll finish cooking in the sauce. Save at least half a cup of the pasta water before draining; that starchy water will help you loosen and thicken the sauce later, so don’t skip it!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Cook Tomato Paste

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in finely diced onions and cook gently until translucent but not browned—smaller pieces blend in better for a smooth sauce. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Next, add the entire tub of tomato paste to the pan and cook it down for several minutes, stirring often. I discovered this trick when I first made this recipe and it totally cuts the raw edge of the tomato flavor, making the sauce deep and balanced.

Step 3: Add Vodka and Cream

Pour in the vodka—watch it sizzle as the alcohol cooks off in about 2-3 minutes. This step is key to unlocking all those complex notes without leaving the sauce tasting boozy. Then, stir in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This is when that rich, silky texture starts to come together, and your kitchen will smell irresistible.

Step 4: Season and Combine Pasta

Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, and let it simmer gently so the flavors meld for a couple of minutes. Then add the cooked pasta straight into the sauce pan along with a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Toss everything until the pasta is coated beautifully. Finally, fold in the freshly grated Parmesan while the sauce is still warm—it melts in and gives it that signature savory, cheesy finish.

How to Serve Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I like to finish this pasta with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. It adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbal lift that balances the richness. Of course, more Parmesan on top is always welcomed—my family digs right in when there’s an extra sprinkle at the table.

Side Dishes

One of my favorite pairings is a crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or toasted ciabatta is also wonderful to soak up any leftover sauce, and some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli make for an easy, well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I sometimes serve this creamy vodka penne pasta in small individual ramekins or drizzle a little truffle oil on top to elevate the presentation and flavor. A few basil leaves and a dusting of finely grated Parmesan add an elegant finish that always impresses guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken overnight, so you might want to add a splash of cream or pasta water when reheating to loosen it back up.

Freezing

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container. I recommend freezing without the fresh parsley garnish and Parmesan topping. When thawed, the texture might be a little softer, so I like to add a bit more cream when reheating to refresh the sauce.

Reheating

I reheat this pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to keep it creamy and prevent drying out. Microwaving works in a pinch but can dry the sauce out faster.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe is hands-down one of my go-to dishes when I want something both simple and a little indulgent. It’s the kind of recipe that makes weeknights feel special without demanding hours in the kitchen. I hope you enjoy making it as much as we do—trust me, once you try it, it’ll likely become a beloved staple in your home, too. So go ahead, pop on some music, open that bottle of vodka, and let’s get cooking!

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