How to Make Penne Alla Vodka

heavy cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: milk + cornstarch

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess

parmesan cheese

💰Cheaper: pecorino cheese

Pecorino is often less expensive and adds a similar salty flavor.

vodka

💰Cheaper: white wine

White wine can provide acidity and depth, though it alters the flavor profile.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

Olive oil is a healthier fat option.

Heat a large pot of water for the pasta. Reserve some of the pasta water to dilute your pasta sauce.

Melt the butter in the skillet over low heat. Add onion and cook for five minutes, stirring occasionally.

Slowly stir the vodka into the skillet. Bring the vodka to a simmer, and cook for four minutes.

Add the tomato puree, heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the skillet, and continue simmering for an additional five minutes, until the onion is soft. Stir in chopped, cooked ham and two or three drops of hot sauce to add an extra kick to your sauce mixture.

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain, and set it aside in a large bowl.

Pour the sauce mixture from the skillet over the penne pasta. Sprinkle the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese over the top, toss everything together, and serve immediately.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens