Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta is a simple and comforting meal that combines hearty sausage, tender pasta, and a flavorful sauce. With ingredients that blend easily, it’s the kind of recipe you can rely on for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. This dish is filling, satisfying, and has just the right amount of spice, making it a great choice for a family meal.
| Servings | Total |
| 6 | 30mins |
History of Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta
Italian sausage has long been a staple in Italian-American cooking, known for its seasoning and hearty texture. Combining it with pasta is a natural fit, as pasta and sausage have been paired in Italy and beyond for generations. Bow tie pasta, or “farfalle,” has origins dating back to the 16th century in Northern Italy. The pasta’s unique shape is perfect for capturing sauces, which may be why it’s such a popular choice in recipes like this one.
Why Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta
This dish is loved for its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. The flavors of Italian sausage, whether mild or spicy, infuse the sauce and create a comforting and hearty meal. The bow-tie pasta adds a fun texture that holds the sauce well, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
What is Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Made of?
Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta typically includes:
- Bow Tie Pasta (Farfalle): The unique shape holds the sauce and ingredients well.
- Italian Sausage: Adds savory flavor and richness to the dish.
- Garlic and Onion: Essential for building a tasty base for the sauce.
- Tomatoes or Tomato Sauce: Forms the base of the sauce, adding acidity and balance.
- Heavy Cream or Parmesan Cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
What to Have with Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta
This pasta pairs well with:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up any extra sauce.
- Salad: A fresh green salad adds a nice contrast to the rich pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Adds color and flavor to the plate.
Is Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Healthy?
While Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta is flavorful and filling, it’s also rich in calories and fats due to the sausage and cream. However, you can make it healthier by using lean sausage, adding extra vegetables, or using whole-grain pasta. Portion control can also help make this dish part of a balanced diet.
Kitchen Equipment
- Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Large Skillet or Pan: For cooking the sausage and sauce.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring.
- Strainer: To drain the pasta.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles until fully cooked and browned. Remove any excess grease if needed.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and cream: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Adjust the spice level: Use mild or spicy sausage based on your preference.
- Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use chicken sausage for a leaner dish.
- Add veggies: Throw in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
Conclusion
This Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta is an easy, flavorful meal that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. It’s creamy, rich, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings. Try this recipe when you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s quick to prepare and sure to please everyone.
MORE RECIPE
The Best Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large Skillet or Pan
- Wooden spoon
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles until fully cooked and browned. Remove any excess grease if needed.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.