Penne a la vodka ii –When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the classic Penne alla Vodka. This creamy, tomato-based pasta is perfect for cozy dinners at home or impressing guests at a gathering. Below, we have three delightful variations of this beloved recipe, each with its own unique twist to satisfy your cravings!
Classic Penne Alla Vodka
This is the traditional recipe that many people know and love. It’s rich, creamy, and has the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup vodka
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vodka, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir until well combined, and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked penne into the sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Spicy Penne Alla Vodka
If you love a little heat in your dishes, this spicy version is just what you need!

Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup vodka
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the penne according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft.
- Incorporate garlic and crushed red pepper, cooking for about 30 seconds.
- Mix in crushed tomatoes and vodka, allowing it to simmer for 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat, add cream, and let simmer for 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss in the penne until coated with the sauce.
- Garnish with parsley and serve!
Vegetable Penne Alla Vodka
This version incorporates fresh vegetables, making it a flavorful, wholesome option.

Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup vodka
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare penne according to package directions and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until tender.
- Mix in garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini, cooking until the vegetables are soft.
- Add crushed tomatoes and vodka, simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cream and let it bubble for 5-7 minutes. Season to taste.
- Combine the cooked penne with the sauce.
- Serve garnished with fresh basil.