Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. While the pasta is cooking, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the mild Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
4. After cooking, transfer the sausage to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Spicy Vodka Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the minced shallot over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, until softened.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize and deepen in flavor.
5. Carefully add the vodka, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 1 minute to evaporate the alcohol.
7. Incorporate the heavy cream, mixing it well with the tomato mixture.
8. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it slightly thickens.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sausage

1. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter, allowing them to melt into the sauce.
2. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and mix to combine.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, along with a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
4. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the sauce.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with more freshly grated Parmesan cheese, cracked black pepper, and fresh basil leaves.
2. Enjoy your creamy, spicy, and delicious vodka pasta!