This Penne All Vodka Made Me Fall in Love with Pasta

heavy cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: milk + cornstarch

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess

vodka

🥗Healthier: non-alcoholic vodka substitute

💰Cheaper: white grape juice

Non-alcoholic options provide similar flavor without alcohol.

Small dice one medium yellow onion and add it to a small bowl.

Slice off the end of one Fresno pepper, slice it in half, remove most of the pith, and set aside. Alternatively, use 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes.

Grate one cup (80 grams) of fresh pecorino cheese and set aside.

Medium to large dice 1/4 pound (113 grams) of pancetta and set aside in a bowl.

Crush 28 ounces (794 grams) of canned San Marzano tomatoes by hand until slightly chunky and set aside.

In a large 6-quart Rondo pot, add 2 tablespoons (26 grams) of olive oil and turn the heat to low medium.

Add the diced pancetta to the pot and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until browned and crispy. Transfer to a bowl using a slotted spoon.

Add the diced onions to the pot and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until browned and sweet.

Add the Fresno pepper (or crushed red pepper flakes) to the onions and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes.

Return the crispy pancetta to the pot and turn the heat down to low.

Add 1/4 cup (85 grams) of vodka to the pot, turn the heat back up to medium, and scrape the bottom of the pan to remove the fond. Cook until the liquid reduces to about 1/4.

Add the crushed tomatoes to the pot and cook for 8 to 10 minutes over low to medium heat until the sauce thickens and is not runny.

In a separate large pot of boiling salted water, add 1 pound (454 grams) of penne rigate and cook for 7 to 8 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally.

Once the sauce has thickened, add 1 cup (240 grams) of heavy whipping cream to the sauce, season with salt and fresh cracked black pepper, and mix until combined.

Drain the cooked penne and add it directly to the sauce, mixing well.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens