Instant Pot Penne A La Vodka

Instant Pot Penne A La Vodka is mini penne noodles in a meaty creamy vodka sauce.  The best thing about this meal is that it’s a one pot dish. 

Most of our days are busy around here.  Especially with the beautiful weather and all the time that we spend outdoors. I am always looking for a way to get dinner on the table fast.  That’s where my Instant Pot comes in handy.  It cooks quickly and helps me reduce dishes.  Plus, this dinner comes out delicious and family friendly. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Penne A La Vodka

Can I use a different type of meat 

Absolutely.  We really prefer italian sausage, however this recipe is flexible.  You can use sweet or spicy italian sausage.  We use sweet italian sausage.  You could also use ground beef, ground turkey, or even ground chicken.  I recommend if you are using something other than sausage to flavor your ground meat with some garlic powder or minced garlic, onion powder, salt and pepper.  You only need about ½ teaspoon of each.  If you are sensitive to salt feel free to use less. 

Can I used jarred pasta sauce instead

Yes.  I really feel like the homemade sauce takes this pasta up a few notches but if you want a short cut you can certainly use a jar of sauce. My favorite jarred sauce is Classico but you can use any type that you prefer. 

Can I use something other than vodka 

Vodka really is what makes this sauce so delicious.  However, if you really want to leave the vodka out you can use apple cider mixed with lime juice or white grape juice mixed with lime juice.  Add about one tablespoon of lime juice to your ½ cup of juice if you are using one of these substitutes. 

Can I freeze Instant Pot Penne A La Vodka

This recipe does continue heavy whipping cream which can separate while frozen.  However, I did test this recipe and the heavy did not separate from the sauce for me. I personally do not like how mushy the noodles become.  That being said you can freeze this dish if you don’t mind the texture changes. 

Instant Pot Penne A La Vodka

• 5 links of mild Italian sausage, casings removed
• 4 tablespoons of minced garlic 
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
• 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder 
• 3 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup vodka
• 1 (16-oz) box mini penne pasta
• ½ cup heavy cream 
• 1 teaspoon of pepper 
• 1 teaspoon of salt

How To Make 

1. Set instant pot to sauté and toss in the sausage. Chop sausage into bite size pieces while browning. 

2. Once sausage is browned, toss in the garlic and cook for 3 minutes.

3. Add the spices, tomatoes, broth, vodka and pasta. Close the lid and pressure valve and pressure cook on high for 5 minutes. 

4. Manually release the pressure valve, remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream. 

5. Serve once cooled.

Cooking Tips

• After you have cooked your sausage, be sure to clean your liner well to prevent the burn notice. 
• If you cannot find mini penne pasta regular penne will work in this recipe. 
• You can use chicken bouillon and water instead of chicken broth.
• Do not stir after you add your tomatoes to prevent getting the burn notice. 

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