Penne Alla Vodka

One of my favorite Italian pasta dishes is Penne Alla Vodka. I know it's pretty caloric, but it's also very hearty dish that is impossible to pass up. Plus, Dr. Sweetpea also loves this dish, so I decided to give it a try at home. Ree Drummond's recipes are always a win, and this recipes did not disappoint! So simple to make, and absolutely delicious :o)

Penne Alla Vodka

(Source: Ree Drummond)

1 pound penne

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 whole medium onion, chopped finely

3 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup vodka

1 (14-ounce) can tomato puree or tomato sauce

1 cup heavy cream

1 generous pinch red pepper flakes, plus more if needed

1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt

Freshly ground black pepper

Grated Parmesan, for serving

Cook the pasta according to package directions. Saute the garlic and onions in 2 tablespoons butter and the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat until soft. Pour in the vodka, being careful if your stove has an open flame (remove the pan from the heat before adding). Cook and reduce for 2 to 3 minutes, then pour in the tomato puree. Stir the mixture until it's thoroughly combined, then reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then turn heat to the lowest simmer possible. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and add salt and pepper to taste. Finally, stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Pour the drained pasta into the sauce and toss to combine. Sprinkle on the Parmesan, then sprinkle on more red pepper flakes if desired.