Creamy Tomato Vodka Penne Bake

If you’re craving a comforting, rich, and utterly satisfying pasta dish, the Creamy Tomato Vodka Penne Bake is your new go-to recipe. This luscious bake combines tender penne pasta with a velvety tomato vodka sauce, creamy cheese layers, and savory cooked chicken, creating a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend gatherings. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and guarantees a crowd-pleasing plate every single time.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

The magic of this Creamy Tomato Vodka Penne Bake lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The tangy crushed tomatoes meld beautifully with the smooth heavy cream, while the splash of vodka enhances the sauce’s depth without overpowering it. The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses adds that perfect melty, golden crust that everyone loves. Plus, the addition of diced cooked chicken boosts the protein, making it a hearty, wholesome dish. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is easy to pull together yet feels like a special treat.

If you adore dishes like the Baked Ziti Recipe, you’ll find this Creamy Tomato Vodka Penne Bake just as delightful, if not more so!

The Ingredient Lineup

• 12 ounces penne pasta: The perfect tubular pasta to capture the creamy sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic to fragrant perfection.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce base.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Essential for that classic savory punch.
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, rich and vibrant.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Brings luscious creaminess to balance the acidity.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to infuse that traditional Italian flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance and balance all the flavors.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty flavor and helps thicken the bake.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, golden topping.
• 1 pound cooked chicken, diced: Tender and juicy protein to make this a complete meal.
• Fresh basil for garnish: Brightens the dish with a fresh herbal note.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the aromatics and simmer the sauce.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch): To assemble and bake the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce and pasta.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To keep ingredient ratios spot on.
• Grater: For freshly grated Parmesan and shredding mozzarella if needed.

Creamy Tomato Vodka Penne Bake Made Stepwise

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually around 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 4: Add Cream and Chicken

Slowly stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce turns a lovely creamy pink. Fold in the diced cooked chicken, heating through for 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained penne to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the baking dish. Sprinkle half of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses over the layer. Add the remaining pasta on top, then finish with the rest of the cheeses.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

For a quick skillet alternative, check out the Creamy Tomato Basil Penne Skillet for a one-pan meal that’s just as delicious!

Quick Replacement Ideas

• Instead of chicken, use cooked shrimp for a seafood twist – similar to the Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Penne.
• Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Use gluten-free penne pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
• Replace Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary if you prefer fresh over dried.
• Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese for a different melty texture.

Pro Perspective

To elevate your Creamy Tomato Vodka Penne Bake, consider these tips from seasoned cooks:

• Use fresh Parmesan cheese for grating rather than pre-grated for a richer taste and better melt.
• Let the sauce simmer long enough to reduce slightly; this intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta initially; al dente pasta will finish cooking in the oven without becoming mushy.
• For an extra golden crust, broil the bake for the last 2-3 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.
• Fresh basil added right before serving brightens the entire dish and adds a fresh herbal aroma.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

This Creamy Tomato Vodka Penne Bake stores beautifully for leftovers. Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh:

• Allow the bake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• For longer storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked dish. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Your Top Questions

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to keep it hearty and delicious.

Is it necessary to use vodka in the sauce?

The vodka enhances the sauce by releasing flavors from the tomatoes that water or stock can’t, but if you prefer, you can leave it out. The sauce will still be tasty, just slightly less complex.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Cooked, diced chicken breast or thigh both work well. Use leftover roast chicken or quickly pan-sear chicken breasts and dice them for convenience.

Desserts to Finish

• Classic Baked Ziti Recipe – If you want to keep the Italian theme going.
• Creamy Tomato Basil Penne Skillet – For another creamy pasta delight.
• Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Penne – A seafood twist on creamy tomato pasta.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Creamy Tomato Vodka Penne Bake fresh from the oven, garnished with vibrant basil leaves. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is a wonderful way to bring warmth and comfort to any table, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special occasion. Watch it disappear fast — it’s that good!

Creamy Tomato Vodka Penne Bake is a recipe you’ll return to again and again, thanks to its beautiful blend of rich flavors and easy preparation. Enjoy every comforting, cheesy bite!

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