Penne alla Vodka Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 12 oz penne pasta
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 tablespoon butter
04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1/2 cup vodka
07 - 1/4 cup tomato paste
08 - 1 cup heavy cream
09 - Salt, to taste
10 - Black pepper, to taste
11 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 - Fresh basil, chopped (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
03 - Carefully pour in the vodka and let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
04 - Add the tomato paste and stir until well combined. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
05 - Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the pasta is heated through and well coated with the sauce.
06 - Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.

# Notes:

01 - For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
02 - If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the pasta cooking water to thin it out to your desired consistency.