Bring large pot of water over high heat. Bring water to boil.
Heat butter and olive oil in large sauce pan over medium low heat. Add the garlic and let it flavor the oil and butter for about a minute. Add the pepper flakes and let them flavor the oil for another minute. Add the vodka and turn the heat up to medium high and heat for 2 minutes. You will hear the difference in the sound of the sizzle as the alcohol burns off - the tone gets higher!
The water pan should be boiling by now. Add a good 2 or 3 pinches of salt to the water. Be generous because you've heard it a hundred times - this is the only time you get to flavor the pasta! Add the penne and cook to package directions. We like ours just a bit past the al dente. Be careful to not overcook though.
While pasta is cooking, turn heat in saucepan to medium and add the tomatoes. Allow the tomatoes to simmer and thicken up (about 8 to 10 minutes) stirring as needed. As tomatoes will bubble and splatter all over my stove, I cover the pot with a grease splatter screen. These screens with handles are great for frying foods but even better for sauces that you want to thicken up. Go get one if you don't have one - you will thank me! Add the cream and the basil and remove from the heat. Add salt to taste. You can add black pepper too - just remember there is an underlying heat from the red pepper flakes be careful to not make it too hot.
When pasta is done, drain it well and put into a large serving bowl. Add a pinch of butter and toss. Add the sauce and mix. Serve topped with the fresh grated cheese. A nice bottle of cabernet and a crusty loaf of bread followed by a light salad make a perfect end to a busy Saturday at the Guitar Store!