Description
The Spicy Penne Alla Vodka with High-Protein Meatballs is a fusion of two legendary culinary traditions. On one side, you have the smooth, slightly acidic, and creamy vodka sauce that gained massive popularity in the late twentieth century. On the other, you have hearty, lean meatballs packed with Italian herbs and a spicy kick.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 500g lean ground beef or chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or oat flour for extra protein)
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 250g penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup tomato paste
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup vodka
- ½ cup pasta water
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Make the meatballs
In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan, garlic, chili flakes, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
2. Cook the meatballs
Heat oil in a pan and cook meatballs until browned and fully cooked through. Set aside.
3. Cook the pasta
Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
4. Prepare the sauce
In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add chili flakes and tomato paste; cook for 2–3 minutes.
5. Add vodka & cream
Pour in vodka and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Add cream and stir until smooth.
6. Combine everything
Add pasta, meatballs, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss well. Stir in parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: ~520 kcal
Keywords: Protein-rich vodka pasta, spicy meatballs and penne, healthy penne alla vodka, high-protein Italian pasta dinner