This Easy Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta is a fun and tasty dish! With bow tie pasta, flavorful Italian sausage, and a simple tomato sauce, it’s sure to please everyone.
Cooking this meal is a breeze! I love how the shapes of the pasta hold the sauce perfectly. Plus, it makes dinner feel extra special without too much fuss. Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bow Tie Pasta: Bow tie pasta (farfalle) is perfect for this recipe, but you can use any other pasta shapes if you prefer, like penne or rotini. They hold sauces well too!
Italian Sausage: Decide if you want mild or spicy sausage. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey sausage is a great substitute. Just make sure it’s flavored well!
Heavy Cream: The recipe calls for heavy cream for a rich taste; you can swap it with half-and-half for a lighter option or use a plant-based cream for dairy-free cooking.
Diced Tomatoes: If you’re out of canned diced tomatoes, fresh tomatoes can work too! Just chop them up and use about four medium-sized tomatoes. You can also use crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture.
How Do You Cook Italian Sausage for the Best Flavor?
Cooking Italian sausage properly makes a big difference in flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Remove the sausage from its casing and break it up in the skillet. This allows for even cooking and browning.
- Cook over medium heat until the sausage is browned. The key is to let it sit undisturbed for a bit before stirring so it can develop that nice golden crust.
- If you’re using a leaner sausage, keep an eye on the heat to avoid drying it out. Blend it into the sauce for full flavor!
This method adds depth to your sauce and brings out the rich flavors of the sausage, making your dish more delicious!
Easy Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables and Sauces:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
Dairy and Seasonings:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready for dinner in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When done, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
2. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Next, add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Keep cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Now, add the chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, letting that wonderful garlic aroma fill your kitchen!
4. Add the Sauces:
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the tomato sauce. Stir everything together to combine nicely.
5. Flavor the Sauce:
Next, add the dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like some heat), and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to mix the flavors.
6. Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens a bit and the flavors meld together.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Toss the cooked bow tie pasta into the sauce, mixing well to coat all the pasta with the delicious sauce.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your pasta hot, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil for an added touch of flavor and color.
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Easy Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta! It’s a delightful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bow tie pasta (farfalle) works great in this recipe, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
If you want to lighten this dish, consider using turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage. You can also substitute heavy cream for a lighter option like unsweetened almond milk or a plant-based cream. Using whole grain pasta is another great way to boost the health factor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes! You can freeze the pasta for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it through on the stove or in the microwave.
