Next time you’re in the mood for Penne alla Vodka, forget ordering out. Instead, try this super delicious Gluten Free Penne alla Vodka recipe. The best part is you can make it with Schar Gluten-Free Penne pasta and never feel like you’re missing out.
1/2cupheavy creamfor a non-dairy version try unsweetened cashew milk
1/2cupParmesan cheeseplus more for serving
Fresh basil for servingoptional
DIRECTIONS
Making the Pasta - Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Season with salt. Cook pasta until al dente according to the directions on the box. Reserve water.
Making the Sauce - In a deep heavy-bottomed pan placed over medium-low heat, add the pancetta and onion with olive oil. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent and the pancetta is crispy. (5-7 minutes)
Add the garlic and crushed red pepper. give it a stir and let it cook with the onions until fragrant (2 minutes).
Turn up the heat to medium. Add the can of crushed tomatoes, the vodka and salt + pepper. Simmer until you can’t smell the vodka evaporating from the sauce any more. (5 minutes)
Lower the heat and add the butter and cream. Stir well and let simmer on low for another 3 minutes.
Turn the heat off and stir in ½ cup of Parmesan cheese. Add 1/4 cup of pasta water to the sauce and stir well. This will help the sauce stick to the pasta better.
Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce to coat.
To Serve - After plating, garnish each pasta dish with more grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Enjoy!
Notes
Be sure to lower the heat before adding the cream or the sauce can split.
Instead of pancetta, substitute bacon or a smoky prosciutto. If you don’t eat meat just omit it.
You don’t have to only stick with penne! Try Schar’s Gluten Free Rotini instead.
Cream based sauces like this will last around 5-7 days in the fridge.
This sauce freezes well too! Make extra for a quick and easy dinner.