The Perfect Pasta for Vodka Lovers: Penne alla Vodka

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE PENNE ALLA VODKA

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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

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Heat the butter in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.

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Add the onion.

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Cook, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent, 3 to 4 minutes.

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Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds more. Do not brown.

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Add the tomatoes and their juices, tomato paste, salt, sugar, and vodka.

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Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook at a lively simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes.

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While the sauce simmers, boil the pasta according to the package instructions until just shy of al dente.

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Before draining, ladle out about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and set it aside. Drain the pasta, then return it to the pot.

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Stir the cream into the sauce.

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