Inspired Recipes

Penne alla Vodka

Being in catering for a living, I have been exposed to some of the best chefs, restaurants, and foods in the country and have been fortunate enough to enjoy a variety of cuisines on a regular basis. Doing so has made me more picky, as I have a lot to compare to, however, it has also reminded me that some of the best food you can find is in the comfort of your own home or in that of your families.

One recipe our family always looks forward to is my Mother-in-Law’s Vodka Sauce, which, in my opinion is one of the best I’ve had. When she shared her recipe with me I could not believe how simple it was and is now something I make often for my own family.

This Penne alla Vodka recipe is completely “fool proof” and comes out delicious every time. As a bonus- you can easily double or triple the recipe and freeze for a rainy day. It only gets better with time!

Penne alla Vodka

Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Keyword Italian, Penne, Penne alla Vodka, Penne Vodka, Sauce, Vodka
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Servings 6

Ingredients

  • 6 Cloves Fresh Garlic Smashed & Chopped
  • 1 Small Yellow Onion Small Diced
  • 1 Stick of Butter
  • 1/4 Cup Plain Vodka
  • 2 Jars of Classico Four Cheese Pasta Sauce
  • 1/2 Cup Grated Parmesan or Romano Cheese
  • 3/4 Quart Heavy Cream
  • 1/2 Cup Chicken Stock
  • Salt & Pepper To Taste
  • 1-2 LBS Pasta (Your Choice)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt down one stick of butter

  2. Add chopped garlic & onions to melted butter and saute for a minute or two until translucent

  3. Add vodka and reduce down for 2-3 minutes

  4. Add both jars of pasta sauce and chicken stock and bring to a simmer

  5. Add in cheese and heavy cream and bring to a simmer and lower heat

  6. Let cook for roughly another hour until sauce is flavorful and thick

  7. While sauce is cooking, cook pasta to package instructions until "al dente"

  8. Toss pasta in the sauce, & top with extra parmesan cheese. Serve hot!