Imagine transforming ordinary pasta night into a gourmet experience without spending hours in the kitchen. This Instant Pot Penne alla Vodka recipe is your ticket to culinary magic, delivering a luxurious, restaurant-style dish that will make your taste buds dance with joy. With a perfect balance of rich tomato sauce, smooth cream, and a hint of vodka, this recipe proves that quick meals can be incredibly impressive and delicious.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup vodka
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by finely chopping the onion and measuring out all ingredients precisely.
- Set Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat olive oil. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Pour vodka into the pot and allow it to simmer for 2 minutes, which will help cook off the alcohol and concentrate its flavor.
- Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients and create a smooth sauce base.
- Add uncooked penne pasta directly into the tomato mixture, ensuring pasta is mostly submerged in liquid.
- Close Instant Pot lid, set valve to sealing position, and cook on Manual/High Pressure for 5-6 minutes, depending on pasta package instructions.
- Once cooking completes, perform a quick release of pressure to prevent overcooking the pasta.
- Stir in heavy cream until sauce becomes creamy and smooth, creating a rich, velvety texture.
- Let the pasta rest for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to thicken slightly.
- Garnish with fresh chopped basil and serve hot, optionally with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use a good-quality vodka and fresh ingredients for the best flavor profile.
- Sauté Onions Carefully: Take time to properly caramelize the onions, as they form the flavor foundation of the sauce.
- Don't Overcook Pasta: The Instant Pot cooks pasta quickly, so follow the recommended 5-6 minute cooking time precisely to avoid mushy texture.
- Quick Release is Key: Perform a quick pressure release to prevent overcooking and maintain pasta's al dente texture.
- Cream Addition Technique: Stir in heavy cream after cooking for a smooth, velvety sauce that doesn't separate.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh basil and optional Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish's flavor and presentation.
- Let It Rest: Allow the pasta to sit for 2-3 minutes after cooking to let the sauce thicken and flavors meld together.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 620kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 95mg
