Decadent Penne Alla Vodka with Caramelized Shallots

• Penne pasta

  7.1 oz
• Crushed tomatoes

  14.1 oz
• Heavy cream

  6.7 tbsp
• Vodka

  3.3 tbsp
• Shallots

  2 medium
• Garlic

  2 cloves
• Olive oil

  2 tbsp
• Parmesan cheese

  1.1 oz
• Fresh basil

  0.5 oz
• Salt

  1 tsp
• Black pepper

  0.5 tsp
• Red pepper flakes

  0.3 tsp

All Steps

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. 2

   While pasta cooks, finely mince the shallots and garlic. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-low heat.

3. 3

   Add the minced shallots to the skillet and cook slowly for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized and tender. They should be golden brown and sweet. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

4. 4

   Carefully pour in the vodka, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol mostly evaporates and the liquid is reduced.

5. 5

   Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and flavors to meld.

6. 6

   Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the grated Parmesan cheese until fully combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

7. 7

   Add the drained penne to the sauce. Toss well, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a desired consistency. Cook over low heat for 1-2 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the sauce.

8. 8

   Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.