Dinner, Lunch

Spicy Penne Vodka with Sausage

  • Prep 20 mins
  • Total 50 mins
  • Easy
  • Serves 8

This classic spicy penne vodka is a hearty and comforting meal! Paired with Italian sausage, this creamy and spicy pasta dish will be sure to please!

Allergies

  • Contains Milk/Dairy
  • Contains Wheat

Tip: Allergy Advice

This dish contains the following allergens: Milk/Dairy, Wheat

Cooking mode

Step-by-step instruction without your screen going to sleep

  • water, as needed
  • Kosher salt, as needed
  • 1 pound dried penne pasta
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground sausage
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 medium white onion, peeled, diced
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup clear plain vodka
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ground black pepper, as desired
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, divided

Utensils

  • Step 1

    Fill 3/4 of the Ninja PossiblePot with water and season liberally with salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. When the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 to 13 minutes.

  • Step 2

    When the pasta is done, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and set aside. Place the lid on the pot, align the straining holes in the lid with either pour spout on the pot, then pour our the remaining pasta water. Transfer the pasta to a large bowl and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.

  • Step 3

    Return the pot to medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Add the red pepper flakes and continue to cook until the sausage is browned, about 5-7 minutes.

  • Step 4

    Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Return the pot to medium-high heat, add onion, and sauté until lightly browned, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.

  • Step 5

    Add the tomato paste and sauté until the paste has deepened in color, about 3 minutes. Add the vodka and allow to cook off for about 1 minute. Add the cream, salt, and pepper and bring the sauce to a simmer.

  • Step 6

    When the sauce is simmering, stir in half of the reserved pasta water, then the cooked pasta, and then the sausage. Remove the pasta from heat and mix in the Parmesan cheese and half of the basil. Serve immediately, topped with the remaining basil.