1-First Steps: Boiling the Pasta: Boil a generously salted pot of water and cook the 8 ounces of penne pasta al dente according to package instructions. Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside for later. This base will hold the sauce perfectly, making every bite satisfying.

2-Building the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the 1/2 small finely chopped onion for about 5 minutes until it softens or turns lightly browned. Then, add the 1 clove minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to bring out its aroma.

Next, pour in the 1/4 cup vodka and let the sauce bubble for around 30 seconds. Stir in the 1/4 cup tomato paste until it’s smooth, then add the 3/4 cup heavy or whipping cream. Reduce the heat to medium-low and warm through, letting the sauce thicken in a couple of minutes.

3-Finishing Touches: Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in fresh basil sliced thin if you’re using it. Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce, and if it feels too thick, add a splash of hot pasta water to loosen it up. Serve right away with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired for extra flavor.