If you’re searching for pure comfort in a bowl, look no further than Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta! This creamy, flavor-packed dish brings together tender farfalle pasta, spicy Italian sausage, and a luscious tomato cream sauce speckled with fresh herbs. Every bite is the perfect harmony of savory, zesty, and rich, making it an instant family favorite that’s both quick and satisfying on busy weeknights. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a bit of those cozy Italian-American vibes at home, this pasta recipe delivers in all the best ways.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of essential ingredients, Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta becomes a celebration of classic flavors that play off each other beautifully. Each component brings something wonderful to the table, whether it’s richness, spice, or a pop of color. Here’s your grocery list for success:
- Bow tie (farfalle) pasta (12 oz): Its fun, ruffled shape perfectly catches all the saucy goodness in every mouthful.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Sautéing with this kitchen staple creates a subtle, fruity backbone to the dish.
- Italian sausage (1 pound, casings removed): Go for hot or sweet — the sausage infuses the pasta with hearty, spiced flavor.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Softens and sweetens as it cooks, building plenty of savory depth.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh minced garlic gives that classic, aromatic kick in every bite.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For a touch of heat that elevates the sausage and keeps you coming back for more.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz, with juice): Adds zesty acidity and bright color to the sauce.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Makes the sauce irresistibly silky and brings a lovely richness to the table.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A simple spice blend that adds instant depth — dried oregano, basil, and thyme all in one.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Helps every ingredient shine and lets you customize to your preference.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Salty, nutty Parmesan melts right in for the ultimate creamy finish.
- Fresh basil or parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of flavor and an inviting splash of green up top.
How to Make Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Bow Tie Pasta
Bring a big pot of generously salted water to a boil, then add in your farfalle pasta. Cook it just until al dente according to the package instructions — you want a little bite left because it will finish in the sauce. Remember, overcooked pasta can make your Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta less than perfect! Drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t forget to reserve a splash of that pasta water in case you want to loosen up your sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables
While the pasta works its magic, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. After about 6 to 8 minutes, once the sausage is browned and cooked through, add in your diced onion. Stir and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the onion starts to turn translucent and sweet. Now, stir in your minced garlic and (if you want a little kick) the red pepper flakes, cooking just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Toss in the diced tomatoes, including their flavorful juices, and follow that up with the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine everything — now you’re looking at a gorgeous, creamy sauce! Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, so all the flavors can meld together and the sauce can thicken to luscious perfection.
Step 4: Finish With Pasta and Cheese
Add the drained bow tie pasta right into the skillet with your simmering sauce. Give everything a big, thorough toss so those pasta shapes are nicely coated. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce for pure silkiness. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed — it’s your chance to make this Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta totally your own.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Spoon generous portions of your pasta onto plates or bowls, then shower each serving with more Parmesan, and sprinkle over the chopped basil or parsley. That final touch of fresh herbs takes everything up a notch and gives the dish a beautiful finish!
How to Serve Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta
Garnishes
A handful of freshly chopped basil or parsley brightens every serving, while an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese adds a decadent, restaurant-style touch. Try freshly cracked black pepper or a few chili flakes for even more flavor and a hint of spice.
Side Dishes
This Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta pairs up beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette, or some garlicky roasted vegetables for a wholesome dinner. For a true Italian feast, serve alongside classic garlic bread or crunchy crostini to soak up any extra sauce — a definite crowd-pleaser!
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish family-style in a big, colorful pasta bowl to bring everyone together around the table. For individual flair, portion into shallow pasta plates and garnish each with a Parmesan crisp or swirl in a little extra cream for a luxe presentation. Sprinkle with microgreens for an elegant, modern twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the pasta cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors tend to deepen and get even cozier with time!
Freezing
This pasta is freezer-friendly, perfect for make-ahead meals! Simply transfer cooled Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so the texture stays just right.
Reheating
Reheat single portions gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk, cream, or even a spoonful of water to help bring back that creamy consistency. Stir occasionally as it heats so every bite is saucy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While bow tie pasta is classic for Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta, you can swap in penne, rigatoni, or rotini. The key is to pick a shape that holds sauce well and gives you that perfect bite every time.
How can I make this dish lighter?
For a lightened-up version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, use turkey sausage instead of pork, and go easy on the Parmesan. The flavors will still shine through, but you’ll shave off a few calories per serving.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Definitely! Add spinach or mushrooms to your Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta by tossing them in with the onions. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even peas are all wonderful options to boost the color and nutrition.
Is this recipe spicy?
The red pepper flakes bring a subtle heat, but you can totally control the level. Leave them out for a milder version, or add extra for a bolder, spicier kick — it’s up to your taste buds!
Can I make Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta for a crowd?
Yes! This recipe is easy to double or even triple if you’re feeding a larger group. Just use a big enough skillet or pot, and keep the proportions the same for consistent saucy perfection.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly irresistible about a bowl of Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta — it’s cozy, quick, and overflowing with flavor. Whether it becomes your go-to weeknight dinner or a special treat for friends and family, this dish is guaranteed to bring smiles all around. Roll up your sleeves, grab that pasta pot, and let yourself fall in love with every creamy, sausage-infused bite!
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
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta dish that is quick and easy to prepare. Hearty bow tie pasta is tossed in a creamy tomato and sausage sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Bow Tie Pasta:
- 12 oz bow tie (farfalle) pasta
Italian Sausage Sauce:
- 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
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the bow tie pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet, then add onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir in tomatoes, cream, and seasoning. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Combine: Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce along with Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Garnish with herbs and extra Parmesan before serving hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- This dish is versatile and can be customized with spinach or mushrooms.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
