Simple Homemade Creamy Tomato Vodka Sauce Pasta

Ingredients

• •12 ounces penne pasta
• •2 tablespoons olive oil
• •3 cloves garlic, minced
• •1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• •1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• •1/2 cup heavy cream
• •1/3 cup vodka
• •1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• •1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• •1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
• •2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. 1

   Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.

2. 2

   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

3. 3

   Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

4. 4

   Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine.

5. 5

   Let the tomato sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. 6

   Stir in the heavy cream and vodka, and allow the sauce to simmer gently for another 5 minutes, until slightly thickened.

7. 7

   Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.

8. 8

   Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing until well coated.

9. 9

   Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing thoroughly until melted and creamy.

10. 10

    Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil, if desired.