Hearty, comforting, and full of robust flavor, this Italian Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta is a dinner you’ll crave again and again. Tender farfalle pasta is tossed with savory Italian sausage, sautéed onions, and a creamy tomato-based sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a casual dinner, this dish delivers bold taste and satisfying texture with minimal fuss. It’s rustic Italian comfort food made easy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Savory sausage adds rich, meaty flavor.
Creamy tomato sauce with a hint of spice.
Bow tie pasta holds sauce perfectly.
Simple, one-pan prep with crowd-pleasing results.
Great for leftovers and meal prep.
Ingredients for Italian Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll gather:
Bow tie pasta: This fun shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite a treat.
Olive oil: A splash of this liquid gold adds richness and helps cook the sausage to perfection.
Italian sausage: Choose between mild or spicy, depending on your taste buds. It’s the star of the show!
Onion: Chopped onions bring sweetness and depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant kick that elevates the entire meal.
Diced tomatoes: These juicy gems provide acidity and balance, making the sauce vibrant.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy and indulgent. For a lighter option, consider half-and-half or plant-based cream.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings an authentic Italian flair to your dish.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these staples enhance all the flavors.
Parmesan cheese: Grated cheese adds a salty, nutty finish that ties everything together.
Fresh basil leaves: Optional, but they add a pop of color and freshness when garnished on top.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
Gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Italian Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta
Cooking Italian Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta is a straightforward process that yields delicious results.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water.
Once it’s bubbling, add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
This step is crucial, as perfectly cooked pasta is the foundation of your dish!
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary, keeping the dish lighter.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the chopped onion.
Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
This step adds depth and flavor to your sauce, making it irresistible.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, including the juices, and the heavy cream.
Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich sauce.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, it’s time to bring it all together!
Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet, along with half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
Toss everything until well combined.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
This is where the magic happens, and the pasta absorbs all that delicious sauce!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, serve your Italian Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta hot.
Top each serving with the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.
The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will have everyone at the table eager to dig in.
Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!
Tips for Success
Always salt your pasta water; it enhances the flavor of the pasta.
Don’t rush the browning of the sausage; it adds depth to the dish.
Feel free to customize the sauce with your favorite veggies for added nutrition.
Reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving; it allows flavors to meld.
Equipment Needed
Large pot: For boiling the pasta. A Dutch oven works well too.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for browning the sausage.
Colander: To drain the pasta. A slotted spoon can be a handy alternative.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the sausage.
Variations
Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes for a fiery twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute bow tie pasta with gluten-free pasta for a dietary-friendly version.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for a fragrant touch.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in mozzarella cheese for a gooey, cheesy experience.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a classic pairing.
Salad: A fresh Caesar or mixed greens salad adds a crisp contrast.
Wine: Pair with a light red wine, like Chianti, to enhance the flavors.
Presentation: Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil for a beautiful finish.
FAQs about Italian Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bow tie pasta is fun and holds the sauce well, you can swap it for penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Italian Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Definitely! To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream and skip the Parmesan cheese. You can still achieve a creamy texture without the dairy.
What can I serve with Italian Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta?
Pair it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or even roasted vegetables. These sides complement the dish beautifully and add a nice balance to your meal.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last for about three days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Italian Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to the table.
The rich flavors and creamy sauce create a comforting dish that feels like home.
Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones.
So grab your ingredients, and let’s make some delicious memories together!
A delicious recipe for Italian Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta, combining savory sausage with creamy sauce and pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces bow tie pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the cooked bow tie pasta and half of the Parmesan cheese until well combined. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Serve hot, topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream.
Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
