Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta is a comforting, satisfying dish that combines bold Italian flavors with a creamy, well-balanced sauce. The bow tie pasta captures the sauce beautifully, while the Italian sausage adds savory depth and richness to every bite. I often make this recipe when I want something filling and reliable that the whole family will enjoy. It feels indulgent without being overly heavy and comes together with simple, familiar ingredients. Whether served for a casual weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, this pasta dish delivers warmth, flavor, and a comforting homemade touch that never disappoints.
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Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta (Hearty, Comforting, and Full of Flavor)
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty Italian-inspired pasta dish made with savory Italian sausage, tender bow tie pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce finished with herbs and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and brown the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles.
- Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve hot topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
Notes
- You can use spicy or mild Italian sausage based on preference.
- Substitute cream with milk for a lighter sauce.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Bow Tie Pasta
Bow tie pasta, also known as farfalle, holds the sauce well and adds a pleasing texture to the dish.
Italian Sausage
Italian sausage provides rich, savory flavor. Mild or spicy sausage can be used depending on preference.
Olive Oil
Olive oil helps brown the sausage and adds depth to the sauce.
Onion
Onion adds mild sweetness and balances the richness of the sausage.
Garlic
Garlic enhances the overall flavor with aromatic warmth.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream creates a smooth, creamy base for the sauce.
Chicken Broth
Chicken broth lightens the sauce slightly while adding savory flavor.
Tomato Paste
Tomato paste adds depth and a subtle tang that balances the cream.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese adds sharp, salty flavor and thickens the sauce naturally.
Italian Seasoning
Italian seasoning provides classic herb flavor that complements the sausage.
Salt
Salt enhances all the ingredients and balances the sauce.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and contrast.
Fresh Parsley
Fresh parsley adds brightness and a fresh finish before serving.
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove excess grease if needed.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add the tomato paste and Italian seasoning, stirring to coat the sausage evenly. Pour in the chicken broth and allow it to simmer for a few minutes.
Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly, then add the Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Equipment needed :
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: approximately 35 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce.
Variations and Customizations
This pasta dish is very adaptable. You can add spinach or kale at the end of cooking for extra color and nutrition. I tested it with spinach, and it wilted beautifully into the sauce.
For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.
You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
If you prefer a tomato-forward version, add crushed tomatoes along with the broth for a rosier sauce.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate nutrition per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 560 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbs | 48 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 820 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Brown the Sausage Well
This builds flavor and depth.
Do Not Overcook Pasta
Al dente pasta holds the sauce better.
Simmer Gently
Avoid boiling the cream to keep the sauce smooth.
Grate Cheese Fresh
Fresh Parmesan melts better and improves texture.
Season at the End
Sausage and cheese add salt, so taste first.
FAQs
Can I use chicken sausage?
Yes, chicken sausage works well and is lighter.
Is this dish very creamy?
It is creamy but balanced with broth and tomato paste.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It is best fresh, but reheats well with added liquid.
What pasta can I use instead of bow ties?
Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers are great additions.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, especially when using mild Italian sausage.
Conclusion
Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together creamy sauce, tender pasta, and savory sausage in one satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. This recipe delivers classic Italian-inspired comfort that you will want to make again and again.
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