Penne Alla Vodka

5 from 1 vote

Pink sauce pasta aka spicy pasta alla vodka is a creamy, vibrant dish that combines the best of tomato and cream sauces for an irresistibly rich flavor without the vodka. This delicious pasta is has a velvety smooth texture and is packed with flavor for an easy 30 minute weeknight meal!

Prep Time10

Cook Time10

Total Time20

Course: Dinner, Main

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: pasta alla vodka, pink sauce pasta

Servings: people

Author: Layla Atik

Ingredients

8 oz dry pasta
2 tablespoon butter or 1 tbsp butter +1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup finely chopped onions
3-4 cloves minced garlic
2 Tablespoons tomato paste
½ teaspoon EACH oregano, garlic powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, bouillon powder, salt
fresh black pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup pasta water
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese or more or less to taste
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves thinly sliced

Instructions

Boil pasta in salted water as per package directions, cooking al dente. Reserve about ¼ cup of pasta water.
While pasta is cooking, heat butter in a large heavy-duty pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook down for 3-4 minutes or until softened. Add the garlic and cook down for 30 seconds then stir in the tomato paste and spices.
Sauté for 2-3 minutes then pour in the heavy cream, pasta water, and parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a simmer then lower heat to low.
Stir in the cooked drained pasta and sliced basil. Mix until fully incorporated and pasta slightly thickens (it will thicken as it rests).
Garnish with additional chopped basil and Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta if you like.

Nutrition