Tonight’s dinner forecast = 100% chance of pasta.

Penne alla vodka just got a glow-up: silky sauce, a whisper of heat from Calabrian chilis, and that creamy-tangy balance that makes you forget every other pasta you’ve ever forked. It’s the dish that turns weeknight dinner into a flex — and takeout into a distant memory.
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Penne Alla Vodka with Calabrian Chili

Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup calabrian chili paste
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta in boiling water until al dente, approximately 10-12 minutes, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and Calabrian chili paste, stirring for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is aromatic.
- Pour in vodka carefully and allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the alcohol reduce slightly.
- Mix in heavy cream and continue to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your preference.
- Fold the cooked penne into the sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Turn off the heat, then stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley until well combined.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, serve immediately in a warm dish.
Keywords: Luxurious, Comforting, Spicy, Creamy, Elegant
Spice Rack: Calabrian Chili Paste
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Chopped is powered by people alongside Cookie, our AI sous-chef. Every cook and kitchen is unique, so be sure to check seasoning, temperature, and cook time as you go. Consult packaging for dietary information and always follow food safety guidelines.
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