If you’re craving a hearty, comforting pasta dish that bursts with flavor and warmth, this Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to. The perfect marriage of savory Italian sausage, tender bow tie pasta, and a luxuriously creamy tomato sauce makes every bite a celebration. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to serve guests, offering rich textures and bright flavors that truly satisfy. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll find a permanent spot on your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple but essential. Each one brings its own unique flair — from the spicy richness of the Italian sausage to the fresh brightness of basil — creating a harmonious and colorful bowl of comfort food.
- 12 oz bow tie (farfalle) pasta: The fun, butterfly-shaped pasta holds sauce perfectly and adds a playful texture to every forkful.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A must for sautéing the sausage and vegetables without losing any flavor.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): Provides rich, meaty, and aromatic depth that defines this dish.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds subtle sweetness and soft texture that balances the robust sausage flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Brings that fresh, pungent kick that Italian cooking is famous for.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle heat that livens up the sauce without overpowering it.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice): Contributes a rich, tangy tomato base that’s creamy and comforting.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce irresistibly smooth and luscious.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that perfectly complements the sausage and tomato flavors.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish and melts beautifully into the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish): Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and lend a pop of inviting color.
How to Make Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—this means it should still have a slight bite to it to perfectly absorb the sauce later. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it warm for when you’re ready to combine with the sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage and Sauté Aromatics
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. This takes about 6 to 8 minutes, and you want that beautiful golden crust for maximum flavor. Next, toss in the diced onion and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent—this sweetness will balance the sausage perfectly.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Stir in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking just 30 seconds until fragrant to avoid any bitterness. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, then add the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir and let the sauce simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and melds all those lovely flavors.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, allowing the pasta to soak up all the creamy, savory goodness. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and fold it in until melted and smooth. Taste and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed—seasoning is key to making this dish shine.
How to Serve Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley are a must; they add vibrant color and a fresh aroma that balances the richness of the sauce. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese to make it even more indulgent and irresistible at the table.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, which adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or a crusty artisan loaf are also perfect companions, helping you scoop up any leftover sauce. For a veggie boost, consider serving steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this pasta in vibrant, colorful bowls that showcase the beautiful red sauce and flecks of green herbs. If you want to impress guests, garnish individual plates with spirals of Parmesan and a sprig of fresh basil on top. Another fun idea is to bake the pasta in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese for a golden, bubbly crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may even deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delicious.
Freezing
If you’d like to keep this dish longer, it freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative and still brings great flavor. Just be mindful it may have a milder taste, so you might want to adjust seasonings to keep the dish lively.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. For the Parmesan, nutritional yeast works well to add that cheesy flavor.
How spicy is this Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe?
The heat level depends on the sausage you choose and if you include red pepper flakes. Opt for mild sausage and skip the flakes for a gentle flavor, or add more pepper flakes to turn up the spice.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini all make great additions. Add them along with the onions to soften and blend beautifully with the sauce.
What type of Italian sausage works best?
Traditional sweet or mild Italian sausage works perfectly here, but spicy Italian sausage adds extra heat if you prefer more kick. Removing the casings ensures the sausage cooks evenly and crumbles well into the sauce.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe that feels like a big hug on a plate. Its rich, creamy sauce combined with savory sausage and fresh herbs makes it a standout family favorite you’ll want to make again and again. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients come together to create a deliciously satisfying meal.
Print
Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A rich and creamy Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta featuring savory Italian sausage, tender farfalle pasta, and a luscious tomato and cream sauce, garnished with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz bow tie (farfalle) pasta
Sauce and Sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the sausage and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare the sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and let the sauce cook gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld flavors.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce richness.
- Add spinach or mushrooms along with the onions for extra vegetables and flavor.
- You can omit red pepper flakes if you prefer no heat.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan enhances the depth of flavor.
