Mushroom and Penne Alla Vodka
This cozy penne alla vodka sauce with mushrooms recipe is simple and full of flavor. Tender pasta is coated in a creamy tomato vodka sauce and combined with earthy mushrooms for a dish that feels comforting yet light. It comes together in less than thirty minutes and is perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend dinner party.
Mushroom and Penne alla Vodka
The rich sauce is made with tomato paste, cream, and a splash of vodka which balances the acidity and gives the dish its signature flavor. The mushrooms add depth and a meaty texture that makes this pasta extra satisfying without needing much else. Topped with melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan, every bite is cheesy, saucy, and delicious.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mushroom and Penne alla Vodka
- 1 tbsp of olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 ½ cups mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 oz tomato paste
- ¼ cup vodka
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese plus 2 tbsp for topping
- ½ lb penne pasta
- ⅓ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil
Notes for Success~
✔️ Cook the pasta until just al dente since it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce.
✔️ Let the vodka simmer for at least 2 minutes to remove the harsh alcohol taste while keeping the flavor.
✔️ Use fresh mushrooms like cremini or baby bella for a deeper earthy taste.
✔️ Broil the pasta just until the cheese melts and bubbles for the perfect finish.
🍽️ How to Serve
- As a Main Dish: Pair with a crisp Spinach Salad or buttery Sesame Focaccia Bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
- With Protein: Serve alongside juicy Grilled chicken, tender grilled shrimp, or even Italian sausage for extra heartiness.
- For a Cozy Dinner Party: Present with a platter of apple and brie bites and a side of Shredded Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad for a tasty spread.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth.
If you try this mushroom and penne alla vodka for your next pasta night, then let me know how it turned out in the comments below!
Mushroom and Penne Alla Vodka
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 ½ cups mushrooms sliced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 6 oz tomato paste
- ¼ cup vodka
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese plus 2 tbsp for topping
- ½ lb penne pasta
- ⅓ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil to garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.½ lb penne pasta
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender and golden, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.1 tbsp Olive oil, 1 small onion, diced, 1 ½ cups mushrooms, 4 cloves garlic
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Pour in the vodka and stir, letting it cook down for 2 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off.6 oz tomato paste, ¼ cup vodka
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in the parmesan cheese.½ cup heavy cream, ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese plus 2 tbsp for topping, Salt and pepper to taste
- Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and remaining parmesan, and broil for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.⅓ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, Fresh basil to garnish
Notes
✔️ Let the vodka simmer for at least 2 minutes to remove the harsh alcohol taste while keeping the flavor.
✔️ Use fresh mushrooms like cremini or baby bella for a deeper earthy taste.
✔️ Broil the pasta just until the cheese melts and bubbles for the perfect finish.
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