Name: Delicious Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian Sausage (substitute with plant-based sausage for vegetarian option); 28 ounces Canned Crushed Tomatoes (or fresh diced tomatoes); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (omit if using more crushed tomatoes); ½ cup Heavy Cream (use half-and-half or skip for a lighter dish); 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano; 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (use fresh herbs for better flavor); ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (adjust to taste); 1 cup Chicken Broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version); 12 ounces Bow Tie Pasta (Farfalle) (can substitute with penne or rotini); 1 medium Onion (can substitute with shallots); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 medium Red Bell Pepper; 1 medium Yellow Bell Pepper; ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (can substitute with Pecorino Romano); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (for garnish); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper

With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, finding the perfect weeknight meal can sometimes feel like searching for gold. Enter my Easy Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta—a dish that’s not only a delight to the taste buds but also a cinch to whip up after a long day. Imagine the chewy farfalle coated in a creamy tomato sauce, kissed by the savory notes of Italian sausage, making dinner both comforting and satisfying. This recipe stands out for its versatility; it welcomes a splash of creativity with optional veggies and spices, catering to every taste preference. Plus, it’s family-friendly and sure to impress, whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a cozy meal for yourself. Ready to dive into a bowl that feels like a warm hug? Let’s get cooking!

Why is This Pasta Dish So Special?

Simplicity at Its Best: This Easy Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta comes together with minimal effort, ideal for busy weeknights.

Rich, Creamy Sauce: The comforting blend of heavy cream and savory sausage creates a sauce that envelops every bite of tender farfalle.

Versatile Ingredients: Customize your dish with seasonal veggies or swap in a plant-based sausage, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.

Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and satisfied.

Time-Saving Meal: In just 30 minutes, you can serve a wholesome, homemade dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Dive into this comforting pasta dish, and consider pairing it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread to complete your meal!

Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Ingredients

• To create this delightful dish, gather these essential ingredients.

For the Sauce

Italian Sausage – Provides savory depth and richness; substitute with plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
Canned Crushed Tomatoes – Acts as the base of the sauce, delivering acidity; fresh diced tomatoes can also work.
Tomato Paste – Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens the sauce; can omit if using more crushed tomatoes.
Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, creamy texture; replace with half-and-half or skip for a lighter dish.
Dried Oregano & Basil – Enhance the flavor profile of the sauce; use fresh herbs at a 3:1 ratio for freshness.
Red Pepper Flakes – Offers heat; adjust to taste or omit for milder flavors.
Chicken Broth – Adds depth and moisture to the sauce; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

For the Pasta

Bow Tie Pasta (Farfalle) – The whimsical shape adds visual appeal and holds onto the sauce; can swap for penne or rotini.

For the Vegetables

Onion – Contributes sweetness and depth of flavor; substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor and complexity; fresh garlic is ideal for the best taste.
Red & Yellow Bell Peppers – Provide sweetness and crunch; replace with zucchini or spinach for different textures.

For Finishing Touches

Parmesan Cheese – Provides a salty, nutty flavor; Pecorino Romano can be substituted.
Fresh Parsley – Used as a garnish for freshness; basil or another herb can also work well.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste; be sure to adjust according to preference.

With these ingredients, your Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta will be a mouthwatering, warm hug in a bowl. Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until browned and fully cooked. The sausage should have a nice crisp on the edges when done. Remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Onions
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, allowing it to soften and become translucent. Stir occasionally to avoid burning, ensuring the onion caramelizes beautifully. This step helps build a flavorful base for your Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Peppers
Stir in the minced garlic along with diced red and yellow bell peppers. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the peppers are soft and vibrant in color, releasing their sweetness. The garlic should become fragrant, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma as it melds with the sautéed onions.

Step 4: Build Tomato Base
Next, add the canned crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the vegetable mixture. Allow this concoction to simmer for a couple of minutes, letting the flavors meld together. As the sauce heats, you'll notice a lovely, rich color developing, indicative of the depth of flavor in your sauce.

Step 5: Incorporate Herbs and Spices
Now it's time to elevate the flavor further! Stir in the dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference. The addition of these herbs will create a fragrant, cozy blend, perfect for coating the bow tie pasta later.

Step 6: Simmer Sauce
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the sauce simmer for 15-30 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring the sauce doesn’t stick to the bottom and develop a rich, thick consistency. Simmering allows the flavors to deepen, making this Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta taste like it’s simmered all day.

Step 7: Mix in Broth and Cream
After simmering, stir in 1 cup of chicken broth and ½ cup of heavy cream. This will create a luscious, creamy sauce that envelops the pasta beautifully. Continue cooking on low for about 5 minutes, allowing the cream to meld with the savory elements, resulting in a delightful, velvety texture.

Step 8: Return Sausage
Carefully return the browned sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sausage to heat through and soak up the flavors of the sauce. Your Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta is now starting to come together deliciously!

Step 9: Incorporate Cheese
Add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, mixing well until it melts into the creamy goodness. The cheese adds a wonderful salty, nutty flavor that enhances the whole dish. Allow this to simmer for just a minute longer until everything is perfectly blended and creamy.

Step 10: Cook Pasta
While the sauce is coming together, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta (farfalle) and cook according to package directions, typically about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks to maintain that perfect texture.

Step 11: Reserve Pasta Water
Before draining, ladle out about 1 cup of the pasta water and set it aside. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce's texture later on, making it a secret ingredient to perfect your Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta.

Step 12: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the pasta and immediately toss it in the skillet with the sauce and sausage. Mix thoroughly, ensuring every piece of bow tie pasta is coated with the creamy, tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 13: Serve Immediately
Plate the creamy Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta generously and garnish with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot, allowing the comforting scent to waft through the air, promising a delightful meal that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

What to Serve with Easy Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta

Imagine a cozy dinner gathering filled with laughter, delicious aromas, and mouthwatering flavors—all perfectly complemented by these delightful pairings.

Garlic Bread: A classic choice, this warm, crunchy delight soaks up the creamy tomato sauce, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite.
Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a light vinaigrette bring a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta, brightening the overall meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers roasted to perfection enhance the dish’s flavors and provide a colorful, healthy addition.
Parmesan Crisps: Crispy, cheesy bites offer a delightful texture contrast and can be snacked on before the meal or crumbled over the pasta.
Red Wine: Pair your pasta with a medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti, to elevate the meal with complementary flavor notes.
Tiramisu: For dessert, this iconic Italian treat is the perfect sweet ending, balancing the savory richness of the pasta with creamy coffee-infused layers.
Pesto Caprese Skewers: Skewers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with pesto introduce a burst of fresh flavor and are easy to prepare.
Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing palate cleanser that brightens up the meal, making it feel special and indulgent.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply brown the sausage, sauté the vegetables, and build the tomato base, then let it cool before refrigerating. You can also cook the pasta ahead of time; just undercook it slightly for the best texture. When you're ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stovetop while cooking the pasta, and combine everything with a splash of reserved pasta water for that creamy consistency. This way, you'll have dinner on the table in no time, just as delicious as if made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Separate Storage: If possible, store the sauce and pasta separately to maintain texture. Combine just before serving for the best results.

Reheating: When reheating, gently warm on the stove, stirring occasionally, and add a bit of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency in your Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta.

Expert Tips for Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta

Well-Browned Sausage: Ensure the Italian sausage is browned well for maximum flavor; undercooking may lead to a bland sauce.
Monitor Simmering: Keep an eye on the sauce while it simmers to avoid sticking—stir occasionally to keep it from burning.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste the sauce before serving; it’s easier to adjust spices and seasoning to your liking beforehand.
Pasta Water Trick: Reserve pasta water! This starchy liquid is perfect for adjusting the sauce's consistency, ensuring it's just right.
Fresh Herbs Last: Add fresh herbs like parsley just before serving to retain their vibrant flavor and aroma in your Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta.

Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Variations

Feel free to make this Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta uniquely yours with these fun twists and substitutions!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage or a medley of mushrooms and spinach for a hearty veggie-packed dish. The flavor profile remains rich, while the textures change delightfully!
Cheesy Indulgence: For an extra creamy touch, incorporate a scoop of ricotta or cream cheese into the sauce. It adds a delightful richness that takes comfort to the next level!
Pasta Shape Switch: Not feeling the bow tie vibe? Substitute with penne or rotini! Different pasta shapes bring new texture and allow the sauce to cling deliciously, enhancing your dining experience.
Spice it Up: If you’re reaching for more heat, throw in some freshly chopped chili peppers or increase the red pepper flakes. A little kick can energize the dish, perfect for those who crave excitement in their meals.
Fresh Herb Infusion: Instead of dried oregano and basil, use fresh herbs for a bright, aromatic kick. Basil, parsley, or even thyme can elevate the flavor, making it feel like a dish straight from a rustic Italian kitchen!
Veggie Boost: Load up on seasonal vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color. This variation introduces freshness and crunch, ensuring every bite is as vibrant as it is comforting.
Citrusy Twist: A squeeze of lemon juice before serving brings a fantastic zing, enhancing the overall flavor profile and balancing out the heaviness. This twist can refresh your palate and invigorate those taste buds!
Sauce Swap: Instead of canned crushed tomatoes, try a jar of marinara or a homemade sauce for a twist! It can alter the taste slightly but still remains utterly comforting, adding an element of familiarity and comfort to this cozy meal.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to create something special for your family, transforming this Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta into a dish that feels like home. And for a side, consider serving this with a crisp green salad or swimming in garlic bread to round out a delightful evening!

Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripe vegetables for this dish?
Absolutely! When choosing bell peppers, look for ones that are firm, shiny, and have a vibrant color—avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles. For onions, go for those that feel heavy for their size and have dry, papery skins. Fresh garlic should be plump and firm, without any signs of sprouting. When selecting crushed tomatoes, check the expiration date if using canned, and ensure a sealed jar if opting for fresh.

How should I store leftovers of the Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often recommend reheating on the stovetop over medium heat, and don’t forget to add a splash of broth or cream if it looks a bit dry! This refreshes that creamy sauce, making it just as delicious as the first serving.

Can I freeze Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta?
Yes! To freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s stored flat to save space. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop, adding reserved pasta water for a smooth, creamy consistency.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
No problem at all! If you find your sauce has thickened too much, you can easily adjust it. Start by adding a bit of the reserved pasta water, stirring it in gradually until you reach the desired consistency. If you haven’t reserved pasta water, chicken or vegetable broth works great too!

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Absolutely! Keep in mind that this dish contains various ingredients like garlic and onions, which can be harmful to pets like dogs and cats. If you're cooking for anyone with allergies, be sure to check for common allergens such as dairy (cheese and cream) and gluten (in the pasta). You can substitute gluten-free pasta and dairy-free alternatives seamlessly to cater to dietary needs.

Can I customize the recipe to be vegetarian?
Very much so! You can make a fantastic vegetarian version by substituting the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or adding extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Just ensure the chicken broth is swapped for vegetable broth, and you’ll have a delicious meat-free meal that everyone can enjoy!