This is an old-school favorite with sophisticated flair. The vodka perks up the tomatoes, and the cream makes the sauce rich and smooth. Try stirring in pulled chicken or cooked ground turkey.

Ingredients

• 4 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cups Slow-Cooker Tomato Sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper
• 1/4 cup vodka
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (2 oz.) shredded Parmesan cheese
• 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked according to package directions
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Preparation

1. Sauté garlic in hot oil in a large skillet over medium heat 4 to 5 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Add tomato sauce and red pepper, and cook, stirring often, 5 minutes.
3. Stir in vodka, and reduce heat to low; cook, stirring often, 15 minutes.
4. Remove garlic cloves.
5. Add cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until well incorporated and cheese is melted.
6. Stir in cooked pasta, and top with parsley.
7. Sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese, if desired.
8. Serve immediately.