Shrimp Penne alla Vodka

Shrimp Penne alla Vodka is easy to make and so delicious! Sautéed shrimp with penne pasta in a creamy tomato vodka sauce. What's not to like!

What is Shrimp Penne alla Vodka

Shrimp Penne alla Vodka is also known as Pasta with Vodka Sauce. It is a pasta dish made with vodka and penne pasta noodles. It's usually made with heavy cream, tomatoes, and onions.

Different types of protein can be used to go with it, for example, shrimp (as I have in this recipe) or sausage, pancetta or peas if you are going for a meat free dish.

About the Ingredients

Shrimp - I like using large or extra-large shrimp for this dish since they stay juicy and stand out against the rich sauce. Just make sure they're peeled and deveined for easy eating.

Penne Pasta - Classic choice for vodka sauce! Its tube shape holds the creamy tomato sauce perfectly, but you can substitute rigatoni or fusilli if that's what you have.

Tomato Paste - This gives the sauce depth and a concentrated tomato flavor without needing canned tomatoes.

Vodka - The secret to that signature smooth flavor! The alcohol cooks off but helps release and blend the tomato's natural sweetness and richness.

Milk or Cream - I use milk here for a lighter version, but you can use heavy cream for a thicker, restaurant-style sauce.

Onion & Garlic - The base aromatics that give the sauce that classic Italian flavor.

Parmesan & Basil - Optional but highly recommended for finishing. Parmesan adds umami and saltiness, while basil adds freshness and color.

How to make Pasta with Vodka Sauce (Step by Step)

First gather your ingredients:

• 8 oz shrimp, deveined and tails removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz uncooked penne pasta noodles
• 2 tablespoon butter
• ½ onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, chopped
• 2-4 tablespoon vodka (depending on preference)
• 4 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup milk
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh basil, optional to taste
• Parmesan cheese, optional to taste

Cook penne pasta according to package directions.

While penne is cooking, in a In a skillet, heat olive oil on medium high heat. Add shrimp and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until shrimp is pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.

Now we prepare the sauce - heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter. Add chopped onions and garlic and sauté for about 5 minutes or until it becomes slightly translucent and soft.

Add vodka and stir for about 30 seconds to a minute, and add in the tomato paste. Stir well.

Add milk and reduce heat to medium low to allow the sauce to 1) become warmer and 2) thicken. Let it cook until your desired consistency.

Add the drained pasta, cooked shrimp, salt, pepper, along with parmesan cheese and basil if using and toss to mix well.

Remove from heat and serve!

Storage & Reheating

Storage:
Store leftover Shrimp Penne alla Vodka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so you may need a splash of milk or water when reheating.

Reheating:

• Stovetop (best method): Add a small splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce, then reheat over medium-low heat while stirring until warmed through.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each one, until heated evenly.
  Avoid overcooking or boiling again, as the shrimp can turn rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make it without vodka?
Yes! The vodka adds depth and helps emulsify the sauce, but you can skip it or replace it with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Can I substitute the milk with cream?
Yes, heavy cream makes the sauce richer and creamier. Use whichever fits your taste or dietary preference.

What pasta works best?
Penne is classic, but rigatoni, ziti, or even fettuccine work great - anything that holds onto that creamy tomato sauce.

Can I add more ingredients?
Definitely! Try adding spinach, peas, or even cooked sausage for extra flavor and texture.

More Delicious Noodle Recipes

• Shrimp Noodles Stir Fry - Marinated shrimp stir-fried with garlic, cabbage, and tender noodles in a savory sauce. Yummy, quick, and easy to make!
• Asian Chicken Noodle Soup - A light yet flavorful soup made with rice noodles, pan-fried chicken, fish sauce, and lime juice. Naturally gluten-free and perfect for cozy days!
• Chicken Noodles Stir Fry - Tender marinated chicken stir-fried with chewy noodles, sweet shallots, and crisp celery. A 30-minute dinner that's comforting, versatile, and better than takeout!
• Beef Noodles Stir Fry - Juicy beef stir-fried with garlic, carrots, onions, snow peas, and noodles in a tasty sauce. A quick and flavorful meal everyone will love!

Pin for later!