If you’re searching for that creamy, comforting pasta that feels like a warm hug, you’ve got to try my Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe. It’s rich, a tad spicy, and incredibly satisfying — perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. When I first made this dish, I was blown away by how the vodka adds this subtle tang that elevates the tomato sauce to something magical. Stick around, and I’ll take you step-by-step so you can nail it every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that you probably already have on hand.
Creamy Yet Light: The vodka and cream create a silky sauce that’s indulgent without feeling heavy.
Easy to Customize: Add protein or veggies, or adjust the spice level to your liking.
Quick to Make: Ready in about 35 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.

A close-up view of cooked penne pasta covered in a thick, bright red-orange tomato sauce, mixed well in a large pan. The penne pieces have a slightly glossy texture showing they are coated nicely with the sauce. Fresh green basil leaves are scattered on top in small torn pieces, adding a fresh pop of color. Grated white cheese is sprinkled evenly over the pasta, creating small soft white patches above the sauce. A wooden spoon rests inside the pan, partially covered by the pasta, ready to serve. The whole scene sits on a white marbled surface providing a clean, bright background photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Vodka Penne Pasta, creamy pasta recipes, easy vodka pasta, tomato vodka sauce, comforting pasta dishes

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together beautifully — each one hitting a note that builds layers of flavor in the sauce. A quick note: I always recommend using good quality tomato paste and freshly grated Parmesan for the best results!

Flat lay of a small pat of unsalted butter, one whole shallot with purple-tinged skin, two whole garlic cloves with papery skins, a small white bowl of rich red tomato paste, a small white bowl of crushed red pepper flakes, a small white bowl of clear vodka, a small white bowl of kosher salt crystals, a portion of uncooked penne pasta, a small white bowl of creamy heavy cream, a small white bowl of finely grated Parmesan cheese, several fresh bright green basil leaves arranged neatly, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Vodka Penne Pasta, creamy pasta recipes, easy vodka pasta, tomato vodka sauce, comforting pasta dishes

Unsalted butter: Gives the sauce a rich base and allows you to control the saltiness.
Shallot: Provides a subtle sweetness and delicate onion flavor without overpowering.
Garlic cloves: Freshly chopped for that classic Italian aroma.
Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that forms the heart of the sauce.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds just the right amount of heat to balance the creaminess.
Vodka: Not just for the kick — it enhances the tomato flavor dramatically.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning throughout.
Penne (or rigatoni) pasta: Tubed pasta holds onto the sauce perfectly.
Heavy cream: Smooths and thickens the sauce for that signature silky texture.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated to melt into the sauce and as garnish for the top.
Fresh basil leaves: The final fresh pop that brightens the dish.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love that this Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe is a great canvas for adding your own twist. Whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, or like things a bit spicy, there’s room for you here.

Add protein: Toss in some sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken. My family goes crazy when I add spicy Italian sausage for extra flavor.
Veggie boost: Stir in roasted red peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. I discovered this trick when I needed to sneak greens into a picky eater’s meal.
Dairy-free version: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan — still delicious and creamy!
Extra spice: Increase crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce if you like a chili kick.

How to Make Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Build the flavor base with butter, shallot, and garlic

Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. When it’s bubbly and melted, add finely chopped shallot and garlic. Cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often until they soften and become fragrant. This slow sweat is key — don’t rush letting these flavors develop, as they form the savory foundation of your sauce.

Step 2: Incorporate tomato paste and red pepper flakes

Next, stir in the tomato paste and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture, stirring continuously for around 5 minutes until the tomato paste thickens and darkens a little. This step deepens the tomato flavor and adds a touch of savoriness that you just can’t get from canned tomatoes alone. It’s one of those secret steps I don’t skip!

Step 3: Add vodka and deglaze

Pour in the vodka and stir to combine, making sure to scrape up any browned bits that cling to the pan’s bottom. This is where the magic happens – the vodka helps release flavors from the tomato paste and shallot mixture, adding a subtle tang. After stirring it all together, remove the pan from the heat to let things mellow.

Step 4: Cook pasta until al dente

While the sauce is resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your penne or rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente — meaning tender but still with a slight bite. Drain the pasta, but don’t toss all the pasta water! Reserve at least 2 cups; you’ll use this starchy water to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Step 5: Bring the sauce back to life with cream and cheese

Return your skillet to medium heat and add the heavy cream along with about 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water. Stir to combine and then add half of the grated Parmesan, stirring until melted and smooth. Now toss in the cooked pasta, folding gently to coat every piece lovingly with sauce. If the sauce looks too thick, add an extra tablespoon of pasta water at a time to loosen it up. Season with salt to taste.

Step 6: Finish with remaining cheese and fresh basil

Take the pan off the heat and fold in the rest of the Parmesan cheese for that final burst of cheesy goodness. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves. I like to tear the basil by hand — the aroma is unbeatable and really brightens the whole dish up.

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Pro Tips for Making Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe

Don’t skip the shallot: It adds a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomato paste perfectly.
Use good-quality vodka: Even though the alcohol cooks off, a smoother vodka results in a better flavor.
Save your pasta water: It’s a secret trick to help your sauce stick to the pasta and get just the right consistency.
Add cheese off heat: Stir Parmesan in once you’ve removed the sauce from heat to keep it from clumping or becoming grainy.

How to Serve Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil and extra Parmesan are my go-to garnishes because they add that burst of freshness and cheesy richness you want every bite to have. I also sometimes sprinkle just a pinch of red pepper flakes on top for an extra spicy surprise.

Side Dishes

Since this pasta is rich and creamy, I like pairing it with a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some garlic roasted broccoli. It adds a refreshing crunch and balances the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve your Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls and drizzle a little good olive oil on top along with a few basil leaves and shaved Parmesan curls. It makes the dish feel extra elegant without any extra effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you reheat, the sauce may thicken, so adding a splash of water or cream helps bring back that creamy texture.

Freezing

Freezing this pasta can be a bit tricky because the cream sauce changes texture, but you can freeze the cooked pasta and sauce separately. Defrost in the fridge overnight and gently reheat, adding a little cream or pasta water to revive the sauce.

Reheating

I usually reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently and adding liquid as needed. Avoid microwaving if you can—it tends to dry out creamy pasta dishes.

FAQs

Can I substitute vodka with something else?

While vodka is traditional because it enhances the tomato flavor without overpowering, you can substitute with water or broth if you prefer no alcohol. The dish will still be tasty, but missing that subtle tang vodka provides.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne or rigatoni are ideal because their tube shapes trap the sauce inside, giving you a burst of flavor with every bite. Other good options include ziti or even rigatoncini.
How do I make this recipe spicier?

Simply increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce when finishing the sauce. Tasting as you go helps you get your perfect level of heat.
Is the alcohol completely cooked off?

Yes! When you add the vodka to the hot pan and cook it briefly, most of the alcohol burns off, leaving behind the flavor without the boozy bite.

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Vodka Penne Pasta Recipe turns out every time — it’s creamy, comforting, and just the right amount of special. Whenever I make it, friends and family keep asking for seconds, which says a lot! Give it a try for your next meal and I promise you’ll be thrilled with how easy and delicious it is. Cooking with friends, or even just yourself, this dish feels like a little celebration in a bowl. Enjoy every bite!