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This Vodka Mince Pasta also known as Penne alla Vodka is a quick & easy pasta dish with the key ingredient obviously being Vodka.

This Vodka Mince Pasta also known as Penne alla Vodka is a quick & easy pasta dish with the key ingredient obviously being Vodka.
Vodka in meals are perfect weekend or festive season meals that the whole family will enjoy – minus the kids of course! This recipe uses penne pasta which is en-robed with a rich tomato & cream based sauce, the vodka brings out all of the other flavors quite well.
Despite using penne pasta for this dish, you may use whatever pasta suites your preference.
Make sure the mince (ground beef/lamb) is defrosted.

Peel & chop the onion.

I’m using tomato puree for this recipe as it saves up on time & creates a thick sauce. You may however remove the skins off tomatoes & blend them, thereafter cook the tomatoes until the water has reduced & it becomes thick (this takes up to 30 minutes) hence why I have chosen the quick route.

Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pot. Then add in the onions & thyme.

Mix & allow to simmer until onions are translucent.

Thereafter, add in the coriander (dhania) powder, cumin (jeera) powder, chili powder, red chili flakes & ginger & garlic paste.

Then add in the dried oregano & sweet basil.

Mix well.

Add in the mince (ground beef/lamb).

Mix well & allow the mince to brown.

Once the mince has browned, add salt to taste.

Thereafter, add in the tomato puree.

Mix well.

Allow to cook for 10 minutes.

After 10 minutes, stir in the sugar.

Pour in the Vodka. I have used Skyy Vodka for this recipe, but any other brand that you prefer may be substituted.

Thereafter, pour in the First Choice cream.

Mix well. Turn off the heat & set aside.

Fill a deep pot with water & bring it to a boil on medium-high heat.
Once the water reaches a boil, add in 1 tablespoon cooking oil & salt to taste.

Stir it & then add in the penne pasta.

Boil penne until al dente.

Empty out into a colander to remove the excess water.

Add the drained penne to the pot of mince.

Mix well.

Plate & garnish with dried or fresh parsley.

Stores in the refrigerator for a few days.

Follow along with Denisiya's step-by-step video guide for Vodka Mince Pasta.
Expert kitchen guidance and troubleshooting for making the best Vodka Mince Pasta
Absolutely! You can easily tailor the heat by increasing or reducing the chili powder and fresh chilies to suit your family’s palate without compromising the authentic flavor profile.
Yes, you can freeze Vodka Mince Pasta in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water, or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Hi, I'm Denisiya! Food lover, recipe developer, and founder of EatMee Recipes. I specialize in authentic South African Durban Indian cuisine, comforting curries, and modern Instant Pot adaptations. Every recipe on this site is tested in my personal kitchen to ensure you get mouth-watering, foolproof results every time.
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