Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta

Introduction

There’s something truly comforting about a big bowl of pasta, and when you add hearty Italian sausage to the mix, it’s like getting a warm hug from the inside. Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta is one of those meals that feels both simple and satisfying, with just the right amount of spice, savory goodness, and a touch of creaminess to balance everything out.

I first stumbled upon this dish during a busy week when I needed something quick yet filling for dinner. I had some Italian sausage in the fridge and a box of bow tie pasta sitting in the pantry, and honestly, I wasn’t expecting much—just a simple meal to get me through the day. But the combination of the sausage and pasta was such a winner that I started making it weekly. My family loved it, and it’s become one of our go-to meals. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a weekend gathering, this dish always hits the spot.

What makes this recipe so special? The Italian sausage adds an incredible depth of flavor, while the bow tie pasta (or farfalle, if you’re feeling fancy) is the perfect base, catching all those delicious juices. With just a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a meal that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel like you know your way around the kitchen, even if you’re a beginner.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta Recipe

This dish is a winner for so many reasons, and trust me, it’s going to become one of your favorites too!

• Easy to Make: You don’t need any fancy ingredients or complex steps for this recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a filling, flavorful dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
• Family-Friendly: Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or trying to get the kids to eat something hearty, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. The pasta is always a hit, and the sausage adds the perfect amount of flavor without being too spicy or heavy.
• Packed with Flavor: The Italian sausage is the star of the show. The seasoning in the sausage infuses the pasta and creates a rich, savory sauce that’s just begging to be sopped up with a piece of crusty bread.
• Comforting & Satisfying: If you’re craving something hearty, this recipe delivers. The richness of the sausage combined with the smooth pasta is filling and satisfying without being too heavy.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings

Calories per serving: 400
Protein: 20g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 15g

Ingredients

You don’t need much to make this dish, but what you do need is essential for creating that perfect balance of flavors.

• 1 lb Italian sausage (either sweet or spicy, depending on your preference—make sure to remove the casing if you’re using links)
• 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for that aromatic punch)
• 1 medium onion, diced (adds a little sweetness and depth)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (for a touch of richness)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (a must-have Italian herb)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (adds a fragrant, herby flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, but highly recommended for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but oh-so-delicious when sprinkled on top!)

Why These Ingredients Work:

• Italian Sausage: The sausage gives this dish its robust flavor. Whether you choose sweet or spicy sausage, it’s the key to making this pasta stand out. I personally love using spicy sausage because it adds that extra kick, but if you’re serving the whole family, sweet sausage is perfect for all ages.
• Bow Tie Pasta: The cute little bow tie shape, or farfalle, is fantastic for catching all the delicious sauce. The size and texture of the pasta allow it to hold up well against the rich sausage.
• Heavy Cream: This transforms the dish from a simple pasta and sausage combo into a creamy, dreamy meal. It balances the heat from the sausage and gives the dish a smooth, velvety texture.
• Herbs & Spices: Oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes are staples in Italian cooking. These spices create the aromatic base of the sauce, filling your kitchen with the scent of Italy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add the bow tie pasta. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 9-11 minutes, until it’s al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain the pasta, saving a cup of the pasta water (you never know when you’ll need it!).

2. Brown the Sausage
While the pasta is cooking, heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Let it brown and crisp up a bit. The sausage will release a lot of flavorful fat, so you won’t need much oil for this step.

3. Sauté the Veggies
Once the sausage is browned and cooked through, toss in the minced garlic and diced onion. Stir them around in the pan, letting them soften and become fragrant. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The garlic should be golden, and the onions should be translucent.

4. Add the Tomatoes and Cream
Now, pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with juices) and give it all a good stir. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—those are flavor gold! Add in the heavy cream, dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine, and let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes. The cream will thicken, and the flavors will meld together.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is nice and thick, add your cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is fully coated in that creamy, savory sauce. If the mixture seems a little too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. You want a nice, creamy consistency that coats the pasta without being too saucy.

6. Season to Taste
Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. The sausage should bring a lot of flavor, but a little salt and pepper will make it shine.

7. Serve and Garnish
Scoop the pasta into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve it hot, and get ready for the compliments to roll in!

How to Serve

Here are a few ideas to make this meal even more special:

• Serve the pasta with a side of crispy garlic bread for dipping in that delicious sauce.
• Pair it with a simple side salad—a light, tangy arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette is the perfect balance to this rich dish.
• If you’re in the mood for a full Italian experience, serve with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. The roasted veggies will complement the pasta and add some freshness to the meal.

Additional Tips

• Drain the sausage fat: If your sausage releases too much fat, feel free to drain some off before adding the garlic and onions. Too much fat can make the dish greasy.
• Use fresh herbs if possible: If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, go ahead and swap them in for the dried ones. They’ll add a vibrant, fresh flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a little extra heat by stirring in more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook a bit when mixed with the sauce. You don’t want mushy pasta!

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: You can easily make this dish gluten-free by swapping out the bow tie pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the Italian sausage for sautéed mushrooms and a little extra garlic. You’ll still get that savory, earthy flavor, but with a lighter touch.
• Add Veggies: Add some spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic.
• For Extra Creaminess: Add a dollop of cream cheese or ricotta to the sauce for an even richer flavor.

Freezing and Storage

This dish is perfect for meal prep, and it freezes beautifully. Here’s what to do:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the pasta cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove with a little added cream or broth.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: This will help you brown the sausage and sauté the veggies.
• Large Pot for Pasta: For boiling the pasta, a big pot is ideal so it has room to move around.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for breaking up the sausage as it cooks.

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought Italian sausage?
Yes! Store-bought Italian sausage works perfectly. Just make sure to remove the casing if it’s in link form.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sausage and sauce mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer will work. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

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Conclusion

I hope this Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta becomes a family favorite in your home, just like it did in mine! It’s the perfect balance of savory sausage, creamy sauce, and pasta that’s sure to leave everyone satisfied. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your dish and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your beautiful creations!