If you are searching for a dish that combines rich flavors, a comforting cheesy finish, and just the right touch of heat, the Spicy Vodka Pasta Bake Recipe is your go-to meal. This recipe brings together Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a luscious spicy vodka sauce that has the perfect balance of creamy tomato goodness with a hint of a fiery kick. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that manages to feel both hearty and elegant, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry group of friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Spicy Vodka Pasta Bake Recipe calls for a handful of simple but essential ingredients that each add their magic to the final dish. Every element is carefully chosen to create layers of flavors, from the spicy tomato sauce to the melty mozzarella cheese topping.
- 16 ounces DeLallo Shellbows Pasta: The shell-shaped pasta traps the sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- 16 ounces Italian sausage meat: Adds a robust, savory depth and a slight spicy note to complement the sauce.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Provides a subtle sweetness and enhances the overall savory base.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a punch of aromatic warmth and complexity to the dish.
- 1 (25.25 oz) jar DeLallo Pomodoro Spicy Vodka Sauce: The star of the recipe, delivering creamy tomato richness with a spicy vodka flair.
- 1 handful fresh basil (torn): Brings a fresh, herbaceous brightness to balance the richness.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melted on top for that irresistible gooey and golden crust.
How to Make Spicy Vodka Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the DeLallo Shellbows pasta for 11 minutes, exactly one minute less than al dente. This ensures the pasta will perfectly absorb the sauce during baking without becoming mushy. Drain and set it aside but keep it warm for the next steps.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
While the pasta cooks, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and move the rack to the top third of the oven. This positioning will help the cheese brown beautifully towards the end of baking.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage and Onions
Take a large ovenproof skillet (a 12-inch pan works great) and add the Italian sausage meat along with the chopped onion. Sauté over medium-high heat for about ten minutes until the meat is browned and the onions become translucent and fragrant. If you don’t have an ovenproof skillet, you can use a regular pan and transfer everything to a baking dish later on.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds. This will release the garlic’s aroma without letting it burn or become bitter.
Step 5: Incorporate the Sauce and Basil
Lower the heat to medium, then pour in the jar of spicy vodka sauce and toss in the torn fresh basil leaves. Let this mixture heat through gently for a couple of minutes — this step blends all the bold flavors and lets the basil infuse the sauce with a herbal note.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the pre-cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing everything thoroughly to coat each piece of shellbow pasta with that gorgeous spicy vodka sauce. Spread the mixture evenly in the skillet to prepare for baking.
Step 7: Bake and Broil
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta layer, then pop the skillet in the oven. Bake for about fifteen minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely. If you want that irresistible golden and bubbly cheese crust, switch your oven to broil for a minute or two, but watch carefully to prevent burning. Finish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper if necessary and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Spicy Vodka Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves scattered on top add a beautiful pop of green and brighten the dish visually while enhancing the fresh flavors. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give it an extra touch if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil, offering a refreshing contrast to the creamy, spicy pasta. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also perfect for mopping up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Spicy Vodka Pasta Bake Recipe straight from the skillet to keep it informal and cozy, perfect for family-style dining. Alternatively, bake individual portions in small ramekins for an elegant look, ideal if you’re entertaining guests and want to impress with less fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld even more after a day, making it great to reheat for an easy second meal.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container. For best results, consume within one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the pasta’s texture and sauce consistency.
Reheating
Reheat your Spicy Vodka Pasta Bake Recipe in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to preserve that lovely cheesy top. Microwaving works too, though the texture may be slightly less crispy on top.
FAQs
Can I use a different sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional and adds great flavor, you can substitute with turkey sausage or even spicy chorizo for a different twist. Just keep in mind how spicy and seasoned the meat is so it complements the sauce.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Spicy Vodka Pasta Bake Recipe?
Yes, you can omit the sausage and boost the dish with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or eggplant. Adding a plant-based sausage or protein is another delicious option.
What pasta works best if I don’t have shellbows?
Any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or ziti will work beautifully in this recipe. The key is choosing something that holds the sauce well and bakes nicely.
How spicy is the dish? Can it be toned down?
The spice level comes mainly from the vodka sauce and sausage. You can tone it down by using mild sausage and a less spicy vodka sauce or mixing in some cream to mellow the heat.
Can I prepare this recipe completely ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble everything up to step 7, then cover and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish goes in cold from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
The Spicy Vodka Pasta Bake Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. With its rich, spicy sauce, tender pasta, and gooey cheese baked to perfection, it never fails to satisfy cravings and bring smiles to the table. I encourage you to try it at home soon — it’s a fantastic way to elevate your pasta game and enjoy a homemade Italian-inspired feast with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Print
Spicy Vodka Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A comforting and flavorful Spicy Vodka Pasta Bake featuring shellbow pasta tossed in a rich, spicy vodka sauce with Italian sausage, fresh basil, and melted mozzarella cheese, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 ounces DeLallo Shellbows Pasta
Meat and Vegetables
- 16 ounces Italian sausage meat
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 handful fresh basil, torn
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 (25.25 oz) jar DeLallo Pomodoro Spicy Vodka Sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the shellbows pasta for 11 minutes, which is one minute less than al dente. Drain and set aside until needed.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F and position the oven rack in the top third to prepare for baking.
- Cook Sausage and Onions: In a large ovenproof skillet (at least 12 inches), sauté the Italian sausage meat and chopped onions over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the sausage is browned and onions are softened. Alternatively, you can use a regular skillet and transfer later.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to release its fragrance without burning.
- Add Sauce and Basil: Reduce heat to medium, then pour in the spicy vodka sauce along with the torn fresh basil leaves. Let the mixture heat through for a couple of minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything well to coat the pasta evenly. Spread the mixture in an even layer in the skillet or baking dish.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted. For a golden brown top, broil for a few minutes if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- To save time, use pre-cooked sausage or store-bought cooked sausage meat.
- You can substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor, but dried basil can be used if fresh is unavailable.
- Keep an eye on the dish when broiling to prevent burning the cheese.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
