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Simple Sausage Vodka Pasta for a Cozy Night In

A comforting dish that combines rich flavors of sausage with a silky vodka-infused cream sauce, perfect for weeknight meals or special family gatherings.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 ounces Pasta (penne or rigatoni) Choose your favorite type that holds sauce well.

Sausage

  • 1 pound Italian or chicken sausage Remove casing for better integration.

Olive Oil

  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Good quality for sautéing.

Shallots

  • 1 large Shallot, finely chopped Provides a mild, sweet onion flavor.

Garlic

  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Adds aromatic quality.

Tomato Paste

  • 2 tablespoons Tomato paste Deepens flavor and thickens sauce.

Heavy Cream

  • 1 cup Heavy cream Creates the signature creaminess.

Vodka

  • ½ cup Vodka Adds unique tang and depth.

Parmesan Cheese

  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated For serving, adds salty, nutty flavor.

Fresh Basil

  • 1 handful Fresh basil leaves, chopped For garnish, adds fresh aroma.

Salt and Pepper

  • Salt To taste.
  • Pepper To taste.

Instructions

  • 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.
  • 2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and warm for a minute.
  • 3. Add sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
  • 4. Add chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until shallots are translucent.
  • 5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to caramelize it slightly.
  • 6. Pour in vodka and cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce the liquid.
  • 7. Lower heat and add heavy cream, stirring gently to combine.
  • 8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • 9. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  • 10. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped basil.
  • 11. Serve in bowls, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce’s consistency.