Indulge in Creamy Penne Alla Vodka With a Jar Sauce Twist

Introduction

Looking for a comforting and indulgent Italian dish that’s quick and easy to make? Penne alla vodka with jar sauce is a delicious go-to recipe for a satisfying meal. This classic dish features al dente penne pasta smothered in a rich and creamy vodka-infused tomato sauce, complemented with a touch of heat and depth of flavor. The best part? You can achieve this restaurant-quality taste using a jar of pre-made tomato sauce as the base, making it a convenient choice for busy home cooks. In this article, we’ll provide you with a straightforward recipe for penne alla vodka, enhanced with jar sauce, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients

To create this delectable penne alla vodka dish, here are the key ingredients you’ll need:

• 16 oz penne pasta
• 1 jar of vodka sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your penne alla vodka with jar sauce:

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about a minute until fragrant.
3. Pour the jar of vodka sauce into the skillet, allowing it to simmer for 5-7 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, combining it with the sauce until well incorporated. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy vodka sauce.
6. Sprinkle the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese over the pasta and stir to combine, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving, for a burst of vibrant flavor.
9. Plate the creamy penne alla vodka and enjoy!

FAQ

Q: Can I substitute the penne pasta with another type of pasta?
A: Of course! While penne is the traditional choice for this dish, you can experiment with other pasta shapes such as rigatoni or fusilli.

Q: Is it necessary to use vodka sauce from a jar, or can I make it from scratch?
A: Using a pre-made vodka sauce from a jar is a quick and convenient option. However, if you prefer to make the sauce from scratch, you can find numerous recipes online to guide you through the process.

Q: Can I make this dish without alcohol?
A: Yes, you can omit the vodka from the recipe if you prefer. The vodka primarily adds depth to the flavor profile and enhances the creaminess of the sauce, but the dish will still be delicious without it.

Q: How can I store any leftovers?
A: Store any leftover penne alla vodka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of cream or a bit of water to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

Indulge in the sumptuous flavors of this creamy penne alla vodka with jar sauce, as it brings the essence of Italian comfort food to your table with minimal effort. Enjoy the convenience of using a pre-made sauce to create a stunningly delightful meal that will impress family and guests alike.