In family accounts, penne alla vodka belongs to Audrey’s life beyond the film set: an Italian-style comfort dish with a decidedly glamorous name. With a little mischief beneath its impeccable appearance, this silky tomato-and-cream pasta is rich but wonderfully straightforward. The white rose and black ribbon in the accompanying photograph offer a quiet nod to Sabrina and its transformation from simplicity to sophistication.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cost: Moderate
• Region/Ethnic Origin: Italian

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small shallot, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 cup tomato purée
• 1/4 cup vodka
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the penne in salted boiling water until just shy of al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Meanwhile, melt butter over medium heat. Cook shallot and pepper flakes for 3 minutes without browning.
3. Stir in tomato purée and simmer for 5 minutes. Add vodka carefully, away from any open flame, and simmer for 5 more minutes.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in cream and salt. Add drained pasta and a splash of pasta water; simmer together until coated and tender.
5. Remove from heat, fold in cheese, and garnish with parsley.

Serving Suggestions

Serve immediately with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. Offer extra Parmigiano-Reggiano at the table.

Discover more of Audrey’s favorite flavors in At Home with Audrey: The Recipes She Loved.