4.6 Stop Paying Too Much for Takeout and Try This Instead!

Pasta with Pancetta and Vodka Sauce may sound intimidating at first, but I can guarantee this is one of the easiest and most delicious meals you can make. With just a few ingredients and 20 minutes, you too can have a meal that is big on taste and easy on the wallet.

 

You will need:

• 16 ounces pasta (Cavatappi or Penne works best)
• ¼ pound pancetta, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup of vodka
• 1 ½ cups of prepared or store-bought marinara sauce
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• Parmesan cheese, for serving

 

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. In a large non-stick pan, sauté diced pancetta over medium heat until golden brown.
1. Thick cut bacon can be substituted for pancetta.
3. After pancetta is mostly browned, add minced garlic to the pan and saute for  1-2 minutes. 
4. After pancetta is completely browned and garlic is fragrant, add vodka to the pan and cook until it reduces by half.
1. As always when cooking with alcohol, don’t cook with alcohol that you wouldn’t drink.
5. Add prepared marinara sauce to the pan, then whisk in the heavy cream.
6. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
7. While the sauce is cooking, add pasta to boiling water and cook until al dente.
8. Drain pasta and add to the pan with the sauce, tossing to coat.
9. Serve pasta topped with shredded Parmesan cheese.

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