Penne A La Vodka Sauce
A creamy, flavorful vodka sauce with garlic and basil, perfect for a comforting pasta dish that balances rich creaminess with a touch of vodka for depth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put olive oil in a pan over low heat.
- Saute garlic until golden brown.
- Add cans of Contadina tomato sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon dried basil.
- Stir and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Lower heat to medium and cook for 15 minutes.
- Add 1/2 pint light cream.
- Stir occasionally and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add 2 ounces of vodka.
- Bring to a boil.
- Serve over cooked macaroni.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. If you don't have light cream, you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of butter. For a vegetarian twist, replace the vodka with vegetable broth. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or garlic bread as a side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Penne A La Vodka Sauce over al dente penne or your favorite pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for added color and flavor. This dish can be complemented with a side of garlic bread or a mixed green salad, making it a hearty meal. For a complete Italian experience, consider pairing it with a glass of Chianti.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Penne A La Vodka Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of milk or pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penne A La Vodka Sauce contains roughly 642 calories, with 4g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (76% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1780mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving, and cook the pasta fresh for the best texture. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What type of pasta works best with this sauce?
Penne is traditionally used for this dish due to its shape, which holds the sauce well. However, you can use other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes during the cooking process for some heat. Alternatively, a dash of hot sauce can also enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).