Penne alla Vodka with Garlic Bread

Instructions

1. 1

   Cook the Pasta

   • Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil (it should taste like the sea).
   • Add the penne and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 10-12 minutes. The pasta should have a slight bite.
   • Before draining, carefully reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. 2

   Sauté Aromatics

   • While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-6 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for another 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. 3

   Build the Sauce Base

   • Add the tomato paste to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes. The paste will darken to a brick-red color and smell fragrant; this step deepens the tomato flavor.
   • Pour in the vodka to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the vodka bubble and reduce for 2-3 minutes, until the sharp alcohol smell has cooked off.
4. 4

   Simmer the Sauce

   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and the black pepper.
   • Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and let it simmer for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
   • Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. 5

   Finish and Combine

   • Turn the heat to the lowest setting. Slowly stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated. It's important the sauce is not boiling to prevent the cream from separating.
   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
   • Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the penne is evenly coated in the luscious sauce.
   • If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
   • Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.