Penne Alla Vodka With Sausage – Easy & Creamy Recipe

Discover how to make Penne alla Vodka With Sausage, a creamy, flavorful pasta dish. Perfect for weeknights, follow this easy recipe to impress your loved ones.

Penne Alla Vodka With Sausage

If you’re craving a rich and comforting pasta dish, Penne alla Vodka With Sausage is a perfect choice. This Italian-inspired recipe combines the creamy, tangy vodka sauce with spicy Italian sausage for a hearty meal. It’s quick enough for weeknights and impressive enough to serve guests. In under 40 minutes, you can create a flavorful dinner that everyone will love. For more delicious pasta ideas, check out Easy Weeknight Dinners and Creamy Pasta Recipes.

Why You’ll Love It

This dish blends the bold flavors of Italian sausage with a smooth vodka sauce that’s both creamy and vibrant. It’s loaded with savory depth from garlic and onions, balanced by a touch of sweetness from tomatoes and cream. Penne pasta holds the sauce perfectly, making every bite satisfying. Plus, the recipe is very flexible—you can adjust the spice level or swap ingredients easily.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta (gluten-free pasta works well, too)
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed (mild or spicy, your choice)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream (use half and half or coconut cream for lighter or dairy-free options)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (nutritional yeast for vegan)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Fresh basil for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet; sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Pour in the vodka carefully, allowing it to simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
5. Stir crushed tomatoes into the sausage mixture and let simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
7. Add cooked penne to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
8. Serve hot with fresh basil garnish and additional Parmesan if desired.

Expert Tips

For the best Penne alla Vodka With Sausage, use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded cheese. This ensures better melting and flavor. Be sure to simmer the vodka enough to allow alcohol to cook off, which enhances the sauce’s richness. If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of pasta water. This dish reheats well, but stirring in a bit of cream or milk will help restore its creaminess.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if needed. You can freeze the cooked sauce (without pasta) for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before adding freshly cooked pasta.

Variations

• Vegan: Use plant-based sausage, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Gluten-Free: Swap regular penne for gluten-free pasta.
• Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
• Less Alcohol: Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of vodka for a milder sauce.

FAQ

Can I make Penne alla Vodka With Sausage ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just reheat and toss with fresh pasta before serving.

Is vodka necessary in Penne alla Vodka With Sausage?

Vodka helps release flavors from the tomatoes and adds a subtle depth, but you can substitute broth for a milder taste.

What sausage is best for this recipe?

Italian sausage, either mild or spicy, works best. You can use beef, pork, or turkey sausage depending on preference.

How spicy is Penne alla Vodka With Sausage?

It usually has a mild to moderate heat level depending on the choice of sausage and whether you add red pepper flakes.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, penne is traditional but rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli work great and hold the sauce well.

Call to Action

Give this Penne alla Vodka With Sausage recipe a try and let us know what you think! Drop your questions or tips in the comments, and don’t forget to save or share this creamy pasta for easy weeknight meals.

For more recipes like this, visit Italian Pastas and Food Network.