Easy Shrimp Penne alla Vodka Recipe to Try Tonight

If you’re craving a dish that’s both quick and bursting with flavor, the Shrimp Penne alla Vodka recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This creamy, tangy pasta combines succulent shrimp with a rich tomato-vodka sauce that brilliantly coats perfectly cooked penne, making it an irresistible dinner option you can whip up tonight with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Elegant flavors: The vodka sauce adds a subtle kick that elevates the shrimp and pasta combination.
• Balanced ingredients: Creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy elements come together beautifully.
• Impresses effortlessly: Looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality dish without complicated steps.
• Versatile and customizable: Easy to adjust for dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Shrimp Penne alla Vodka lies in a handful of straightforward yet flavorful ingredients. Each one contributes to the perfect balance of creaminess, spice, and sweetness, resulting in a dish that’s comforting and exciting all at once.

• Penne pasta: The ideal shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and shrimp.
• Fresh shrimp: Adds a delicate seafood sweetness and tender texture.
• Vodka: Enhances the tomato sauce’s richness and pulls out complex flavors.
• Crushed tomatoes: Provide the perfect base with a natural sweetness and acidity.
• Heavy cream: Creates the luscious, smooth texture essential to alla vodka sauce.
• Garlic and onions: Build aromatic depth and warmth.
• Red pepper flakes: Give just the right amount of heat to balance the creaminess.
• Olive oil and butter: For sautéing and adding richness to the sauce.
• Fresh basil or parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color at the end.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the flavors.

Variations for Shrimp Penne alla Vodka

This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Whether you want a lighter version, a vegetarian twist, or extra bold flavors, adapting the Shrimp Penne alla Vodka is a breeze and lets you make it your own.

• Use chicken instead of shrimp: A great alternative for a different protein that cooks quickly.
• Make it vegetarian: Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies for a hearty dish.
• Reduce the cream: For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
• Spice it up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a fiery kick.
• Gluten-free pasta: Easily make this dish gluten-free using your favorite alternative pasta.

How to Make Shrimp Penne alla Vodka

Step 1: Cook the penne pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add the shrimp

Season fresh shrimp with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the vodka sauce

Pour vodka into the skillet, allowing it to cook down and reduce for 2-3 minutes. Stir in crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes, letting the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 5: Finish the sauce with cream

Slowly stir in heavy cream and bring to a low simmer, ensuring the sauce becomes smooth and rich. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the sauce, then add the drained penne. Toss everything gently until the pasta is fully coated with the luscious sauce. Add reserved pasta water little by little if the sauce needs thinning.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the dish before serving for an inviting aroma and vibrant color.

Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Penne alla Vodka

• Don’t overcook shrimp: Cook shrimp just until pink to keep them tender and juicy.
• Use quality vodka: A neutral vodka ensures the sauce stays balanced without overwhelming flavors.
• Simmer sauce gently: Avoid boiling cream to prevent curdling and keep it silky.
• Reserve pasta water: Use it to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling to pasta perfectly.
• Fresh herbs matter: Add herbs at the end for vibrant taste and color, not during cooking.

How to Serve Shrimp Penne alla Vodka

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or basil bring brightness and color, while a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory richness that’s simply irresistible.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, garlic bread, or sautéed asparagus pairs beautifully with the creamy Shrimp Penne alla Vodka, balancing out the meal with freshness and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls for an elegant touch, or plate with a lemon wedge to add a zesty twist when squeezed over the shrimp and pasta.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Shrimp Penne alla Vodka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day meal.

Freezing

While the sauce’s creaminess may separate upon freezing, you can freeze cooked shrimp and tomato sauce separately and combine them fresh with cooked pasta to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce and keep the shrimp tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Penne alla Vodka?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used—just thaw before cooking and pat them dry to ensure they sear nicely without steaming.

Is vodka necessary in the sauce?

Vodka enhances the sauce’s flavor by releasing certain tomato compounds and adding subtle depth, but you can leave it out and still enjoy a tasty dish.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk are good alternatives that provide creaminess with a lighter texture or a slight twist in flavor.

How spicy is Shrimp Penne alla Vodka?

The recipe includes red pepper flakes for a gentle heat, but you can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less according to your preference.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the regular penne with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Shrimp Penne alla Vodka quickly becomes a favorite—it’s simple, flavorful, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this recipe brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table with minimal effort. Give it a try tonight and enjoy every creamy, savory bite!

Related Posts

• Easy Homemade Beefaroni Recipe to Try
• Why Hot Honey Chicken Is Your New Favorite Meal
• Easy Pasta Primavera Recipes to Try Tonight

Print