Easiest Penne With Vodka

Hands down, this is the easiest version of a delicious main dish. It suits a busy family night or dinner with good friends. Adapted from the "Ladies Home Journal 100 Great Pasta Recipes" cookbook my sister gave me. I've been making it for years! It's a little lighter on cream and vodka than most penne vodka recipes. Try it with crusty bread and a crisp, tossed salad.

• Ready In: 13 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 2  tablespoons butter
• 1⁄3 cup vodka
• 1⁄2 teaspoon  seasoned pepper or 1⁄2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1  dash cayenne
• 1 (14 1/2ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 cup heavy cream or 1⁄2 cup  whipping cream
• 1⁄4 cup  freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1  lb penne, cooked according to package directions,drained

Directions

1. Heat butter in large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Stir in vodka, seasoned or crushed red pepper, and cayenne; heat gently for two minutes.
3. Carefully add tomatoes and salt.
4. Increase heat to high and cook until mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Lower heat, and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
6. Add the penne, and toss with sauce.