Spicy Penne Vodka with Shrimp

I came across a photo of Pioneer Woman's Penne ala Betsy.  I knew I wanted to try it, or at least something close to it.  I had fresh tomatoes that I brought home from Mom & Dad's and I had shrimp and the last bit of heavy cream in my fridge.  I didn't have the wine but I had vodka.  So, I basically threw it together and prayed because I have never ever made a vodka sauce before.  My prayers were answered.  It was the most yummy sauce I have ever made!  Both Grumpy and I loved it and his words as I sit here typing was "make sure you tell everyone how yummy your sauce was!"  This evening Grumpy ate like a king.  This is probably the only night he will this week, so if any of his co-workers read this, let him know please that you know he ate like a king last night!   He tells me you all think he does every night and that it is MY fault you think so.  I think its all his fault, but I won't argue the fact ;o)

 

This is my submission for Presto Pasta Nights for this week.  If you would like to participate, please check out the website for instructions on how to join in!

Spicy Penne Vodka with Shrimp
Serves 4 comfortably, 2 completely

Printable Recipe
Sauce:
1/2 onion, chopped
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup vodka
3 medium tomatoes, diced

1-1//2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon better than boullion vegetable concentrate (or 1 bouillon cube)
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
8 ounces penne pasta (I use whole wheat) cooked according to package directions

Shrimp:
2 tablespoons butter
salt & pepper
2 small cloves garlic, minced

Saute onion and butter over medium heat for 3-4 minutes.  Add garlic.  Cook and stir 1 minute more.  Add vodka and simmer about 5 minutes.  Add tomatoes and simmer 5 minutes more.  Add heavy cream, bring to boil, add bouillon, turn down heat and simmer (uncovered) about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Sauce will begin to thicken as it simmers.

While sauce is simmering, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.  Add garlic and cook 1 minute.  Add shrimp.  Salt and pepper to taste.  Cook until shrimp is no longer pink,stirring every few minutes.  This will take about 6-7 minutes.  Remove from heat and let cool. Chop into bite size pieces.

Cook pasta according to package directions.  Drain.  Add pasta to sauce along with shrimp.  Stir to combine.  Serve.  Don't feel bad if you feel you have to lick the bowl clean.  You don't want to waste one drop of that yummy sauce!