Creamy Penne alla Vodka with Italian Sausage: A Comforting Dinner Recipe

Best Penne alla Vodka for a Creamy Italian Dinner

Dive into the creamy world of penne alla vodka with this easy, dinner-worthy Italian pasta recipe featuring tender penne, Italian sausage, and a luscious tomato-vodka cream sauce.

Ingredients for Penne alla Vodka

• 1 pound uncooked penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ pound Italian sausage, casing removed
• ½ cup vodka
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions for Penne alla Vodka

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente, about 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and Italian sausage. Break up the sausage with a spoon and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the vodka, stirring to deglaze the pan. Let the vodka reduce by half, about 2–3 minutes.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer gently for another 2–3 minutes.
7. Toss the cooked penne into the sauce until evenly coated. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and stir to combine.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra grating of Parmesan. Serve warm for the ultimate comfort meal.

Nutritional Benefits of Penne alla Vodka

• Calories: 435 kcal
• Carbs: 53 g | Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 13 g | Fat: 18 g (6 g saturated)
• Sodium: 544 mg | Sugar: 1 g

Tips for the Perfect Penne alla Vodka

Choose the Right Pasta

• Opt for high-quality durum semolina penne to ensure a firm al dente bite.

Adjusting the Heat

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or swap in sweet Italian sausage for milder flavor.

Make It Ahead

• Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance—just reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

Serve and indulge in classic penne alla vodka tonight, your guests will thank you!