If you’ve ever tasted Penne alla Vodka, you know how delicious and comforting a good vodka sauce can be! This creamy sauce blends tomato goodness with a splash of vodka, aromatic Italian herbs, and rich heavy cream, resulting in a delightful orange sauce that’s utterly irresistible.

Perfect for pasta lovers, vodka sauce with sausage over gnocchi is a dish that elevates any meal, transforming it into a gourmet experience. It may seem like it took hours to prepare, but trust us—it comes together in just a matter of minutes!

This dish is ideal for family dinners or any special occasion, making it a favorite in many homes. Personally, we think it pairs beautifully with homemade gnocchi. Don’t worry, though—if gnocchi isn’t your thing, there are plenty of pasta types that work just as well!

Stick around for some variations and ideas to mix up the sauce each time you prepare it, giving this classic a fresh twist with different types of meat. And if you enjoy this recipe, consider trying our Traditional Sunday Italian Sauce or Marinara Sauce for more delicious options!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 fresh basil leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 cup vodka
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (28-ounce) cans Italian whole plum tomatoes or 2 pounds fresh plum tomatoes, puréed
• 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup Romano cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Optional: 1 pound loose Italian sausage, sautéed until browned, or cubed seasoned chicken breast, or 4 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Pasta of your choice: homemade gnocchi is recommended, but any pasta works well!

Instructions

1. Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over high heat. Once it starts to bubble, add in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly to prevent burning the garlic.
2. Remove the garlic cloves, giving them a gentle smash to release more flavor, and place them back into the skillet with the tomatoes.
3. Quickly pour in the vodka and allow it to cook for about 2 minutes, stirring well.
4. Add the tomatoes and both types of cheese, simmering for another 2 minutes. Then, pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 1 minute more.
5. Meanwhile, cook your choice of pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, drain it (don’t rinse!) and add it to the sauce.
6. Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of additional grated cheese before serving. Enjoy the delicious aromas that will waft through your kitchen!
7. Note: If you’re using chicken or sausage, sauté it first in olive oil along with garlic until the meat is fully cooked. You can then add it to the sauce during the tomato simmering step.

Why You Should Make Vodka Sauce with Sausage

Incredible Flavor: The vodka enhances the tomatoes, providing a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, while the heavy cream lends a smooth texture that you’ll fall in love with.

Hearty & Satisfying: Adding Italian sausage infuses the dish with protein and a robust flavor that makes it truly satisfying.

Restaurant Quality at Home: This dish has the polished taste of a gourmet meal but can be made easily in under an hour.

Perfect Pairing: If you choose gnocchi, its soft and chewy texture will beautifully soak up all that amazing sauce, ensuring every delicious bite is a rich experience.

While Penne alla Vodka is a classic option, we personally adore pairing this sauce with homemade gnocchi, fettuccine, rigatoni, or even cavatelli for a delightful dinner. Don’t forget to enjoy it with a crisp glass of Moscato and a slice of Grandma’s Tuscan Garlic Bread!

Tips for the Best Vodka Sauce with Sausage

• Opt for ribbed pasta, as it clings to the sauce beautifully.
• Never rinse your pasta after cooking—it helps the sauce adhere better.
• Use a high-quality potato vodka for the best flavor infusion.
• For the freshest taste, try using whole plum tomatoes and mash them yourself for the sauce.
• If you decide to include chicken or sausage, make sure they are cooked and nicely seasoned beforehand.
• Always go for fresh basil; it makes a noticeable difference in the flavor profile.
• Freshly grated cheeses will enhance the dish—definitely avoid pre-shredded cheese if you can!
• If you want the sauce without the alcohol, a splash of lemon juice can be used, but expect a different flavor.
• Choose high-quality sausage—select either sweet or spicy, according to your taste preference.
• Making fresh gnocchi is ideal, but store-bought versions work too if you’re in a pinch.
• Add the cream at the end to ensure the sauce remains silky without curdling.
• Finish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of basil or parsley to elevate the dish visually and aromatically.

Final Thoughts

Vodka sauce with sausage over gnocchi is a wonderful meal that can turn any ordinary dinner into something special. Not only is it hearty enough for chilly evenings, but it also has a refined elegance that makes it fit for entertaining guests.

With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of care in cooking, you can enjoy authentic Italian comfort food right at home. Pair it with a fresh green salad and some garlic bread, plus a glass of your favorite wine for a truly delightful dining experience!