I’m thrilled to share one of my all-time favorite weeknight dinners that’s equal parts comforting and indulgent: Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta. From the very first forkful, you’re greeted by the gentle pop of perfectly cooked farfalle mingling with rich, savory Italian sausage. The marriage of juicy tomatoes and velvety cream brings a lush, silky sauce that clings to every twist of pasta. Minutes after you set the plate before yourself, you’ll find this dish disappearing faster than you can say “mangia!” It’s wonderfully simple to make, yet it delivers that authentic Italian flavor we all crave.
This recipe feels like a warm hug in pasta form. As a busy home cook, I appreciate how it comes together in about 35 minutes total—10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking—making it perfect for those evenings when time is short but flavor is non-negotiable. At just around 600 calories per serving, it strikes a lovely balance between hearty and approachable. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, this beginner-friendly, dinner-course marvel will have everyone asking for seconds. Bonus: its colorful combination of tomatoes, Parmesan, and fresh basil adds a pop of vibrant flavor and flair to your dinner table.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN ITALIAN SAUSAGE WITH BOW TIE PASTA
To make this dish shine, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that each play a vital role in creating that memorable dish.
- Italian sausage
Brings a robust, savory backbone to the dish. As the sausage browns, it releases flavorful fats that infuse the sauce with depth and a hint of spice.
- Bow tie pasta (farfalle)
Its pinched-center shape holds onto bits of sauce and sausage, ensuring each bite is perfectly coated in creamy, tomato goodness.
- Olive oil
Serves as the base for sautéing and helps carry flavors evenly across ingredients. A high-quality extra-virgin olive oil offers fruity and peppery notes.
- Onion
Adds a subtle sweetness and foundational aromatic base. When sautéed until translucent, it melds seamlessly into the sauce.
- Garlic
Provides pungent, aromatic warmth. Just a minute of sautéing unlocks its fragrant oils, elevating the entire dish.
- Diced tomatoes (undrained)
Contribute bright acidity and juicy chunks that balance the richness of the cream and sausage.
- Heavy cream
Creates a luxuriously smooth sauce. It binds the tomatoes and sausage, delivering velvety texture and mellow richness.
- Parmesan cheese
Adds sharp, nutty umami. When stirred in, it melts into the sauce, enhancing both flavor and creaminess.
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Offer a subtle kick of heat to awaken the palate. Adjust based on your spice preference.
- Salt and pepper
Essential for seasoning. They sharpen and round out the flavors of each component.
- Fresh basil leaves
Provide a final burst of herbal freshness. Tear and sprinkle over the finished dish for color and aromatic lift.
HOW TO MAKE ITALIAN SAUSAGE WITH BOW TIE PASTA
Let’s roll up our sleeves and turn these superstar ingredients into a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal. Follow these steps carefully to achieve pasta perfection with a creamy, savory sauce that’s truly irresistible.
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Drain thoroughly and set aside so it’s ready to join the sauce later.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Once it shimmers, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook, stirring often, until the sausage is evenly browned and completely cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate and set aside.
3. In the same hot skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent and lightly golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you can smell its fragrant warmth.
4. Pour the entire can of diced tomatoes, including the juice, into the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to meld. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine thoroughly.
5. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and all the flavors concentrate.
6. Add the drained bow tie pasta directly into the skillet. Use tongs or a large spoon to toss everything together until each piece of farfalle is evenly coated in the creamy, tomato-sausage sauce.
7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely into the sauce, creating a beautifully silky texture. Finally, garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR ITALIAN SAUSAGE WITH BOW TIE PASTA
Once your Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta is ready, consider how you can elevate the final presentation and taste experience. This dish thrives when paired thoughtfully with sides, garnishes, and the right serveware. Whether you’re aiming for cozy family vibes or an intimate dinner setting, these serving ideas will help you shine.
- Invite tender-crisp green vegetables such as a simple arugula salad with a lemon-olive oil dressing to cut through the richness of the creamy sauce. The bright acidity and peppery greens add vibrant contrast on the plate.
- Offer fresh bread like garlic focaccia or crusty Italian rolls for dipping into any leftover sauce. Brush the bread lightly with olive oil and garlic, then toast until golden to provide a crunchy, flavorful companion.
- Pour a glass of Italian red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, whose bright fruit notes and moderate tannins complement the sausage’s robust flavor. For non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling water with a twist of lemon.
- Garnish plates with extra Parmesan shavings and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil. Presenting the dish with the herbs and cheese on top not only adds flavor but also a burst of color that makes the meal feel restaurant-worthy.
HOW TO STORE ITALIAN SAUSAGE WITH BOW TIE PASTA
Storing this dish properly ensures you can enjoy those comforting flavors again without sacrificing texture or taste. The creamy sauce can firm up when cooled, so knowing the right storage methods will help maintain the perfect consistency and freshness for up to three days.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container once the pasta has cooled to room temperature. Seal it tightly to prevent moisture loss and keep odors at bay. Stored this way, leftovers will stay delicious for up to 3 days.
- For longer preservation, freeze portions in zip-top freezer bags or rigid freezer-safe containers. Press out extra air before sealing, then label with the date. Frozen servings can last up to 2 months and simply need thawing in the fridge overnight.
- To reheat gently, transfer the pasta to a skillet and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much in the fridge. Heat until just warmed through to avoid overcooking the pasta.
- If you notice the sauce has separated slightly after storage, whisk in a teaspoon of water or a drizzle of olive oil while reheating to restore its smooth, creamy texture.
CONCLUSION
Bringing Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta to your table is a delightful way to savor the flavors of Italy any night of the week. This beginner-friendly recipe, with just a 10-minute prep and 25-minute cook time, delivers a satisfying blend of savory sausage, creamy tomato sauce, and perfectly al dente farfalle. With about 600 calories per portion, it’s a hearty dinner that won’t keep you in the kitchen for hours. By mastering a few simple techniques—like sautéing onions until translucent, simmering the sauce for depth, and tossing the pasta just right—you’ll achieve a creamy, restaurant-quality meal at home. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan for that final flourish of color and flavor.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder for easy reference. You can also save it digitally to revisit whenever you need a quick, comforting dinner recipe. Below, you’ll find a helpful FAQ section to answer common questions about making and customizing this dish. If you try the recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment with your experience, ask any questions you might have, or share your own twists on this deliciously creamy and satisfying pasta. Happy cooking!
Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta
Description
Packed with savory Italian sausage, creamy sauce, and al dente bow tie pasta, this dish brings a taste of Italy right to your table. It's easy, comforting, and utterly delicious!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the diced tomatoes, including the juice, to the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet and mix well.
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Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for another 5-7 minutes until it slightly thickens.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully integrated.
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Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Note
- This dish can be made spicy by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes.
- For a lower-calorie version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream.
- Adding fresh spinach or kale to the sauce can boost its nutritional value.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a glass of Italian red wine for a complete meal.
