Penne Alla Vodka - Instant Pot

Try this Penne Alla Vodka Instant Pot recipe, or contribute your own.

Penne Alla Vodka - Instant Pot
Penne Alla Vodka - Instant Pot

Try this Penne Alla Vodka Instant Pot recipe, or contribute your own.

  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 4
  • Carbohydrate 4.93984916736708 g
  • Cholesterol 24.778750029686 mg
  • Fat 7.90625834191728 g
  • Fiber 0.688816678921382 g
  • Protein 2.87250750201416 g
  • Saturated Fat 4.43795333847996 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 Serving (313g)
  • Sodium 89.1447084091769 mg
  • Sugar 4.2510324884457 g
  • Trans Fat 0.4222370837792 g
  • Calories 164 calories

Step-by-step

  • Turn IP on to Saute mode.
  • Once the ‘hot’ sign displays add oil.
  • Add onions, garlic and red pepper flakes.
  • Mix well and cook for 2 mins with a glass lid on.
  • Add vodka, mix well and cook for another 2 mins to reduce down the vodka.
  • Add tomato puree, pasta, salt and 2 cups of water.
  • Put IP lid on.
  • Cook on Manual(Hi) for 4 mins (Note, the cook time on Trader Joes brown rice pasta is 7-10 mins) followed by QR.
  • Add cream, parsley and grated cheese.
  • Mix well.
  • Serve hot.
  • Note: For any other type or brand of pasta, set Instant Pot to Manual(HI) for half the time that is specified as cooking time on the pasta box.
Penne Alla Vodka: A Weeknight Wonder

My Go-To Weeknight Pasta: Penne Alla Vodka

As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, easy, and delicious – and that's where my trusty Instant Pot comes in. This Penne Alla Vodka recipe is my absolute lifesaver. It's ready in under 20 minutes, requires minimal cleanup, and always impresses, even my picky eaters! I've tweaked it over the years to perfection, using readily available ingredients and a simple technique that guarantees creamy, flavorful pasta every single time. Forget spending hours in the kitchen – this recipe lets you enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant-quality wait.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The Instant Pot does most of the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while I attend to other things. The creamy vodka sauce is rich and decadent, but surprisingly light. The addition of fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness, balancing the richness of the sauce perfectly. I often use Trader Joe’s brown rice pasta for a healthier twist, but any pasta will do. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. I've even experimented with different types of cheeses – a sprinkle of parmesan, pecorino romano, or even a little ricotta adds a delightful extra dimension of flavor.

Beyond the Recipe: This dish is more than just pasta; it's a symbol of efficiency and deliciousness in the midst of a busy life. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and smart cooking techniques. For me, it's about creating moments of connection around the dinner table, even when time is short. This recipe allows me to nurture my family with delicious, healthy food without sacrificing precious time.

Tips and Variations:

  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
  • Veggie Boost: Sauté some spinach or mushrooms with the onions and garlic for extra nutrients.
  • Protein Power: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a more substantial meal.
  • Cheese Please: Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination.
  • Make it Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making weeknight dinners even easier.

This Penne Alla Vodka recipe is not just a meal; it's a reflection of my commitment to balancing a fulfilling career, a happy family, and a love for good food. It's a testament to the fact that delicious, healthy meals don't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a little ingenuity and a trusty Instant Pot, even the busiest amongst us can enjoy a comforting, delicious meal.

So, give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think! I'd love to hear about your own variations and how you incorporate it into your busy life. Happy cooking!