Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for a rich, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor and easy to make, this Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender bow tie pasta with savory Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and a creamy tomato sauce that wraps everything in pure deliciousness. Perfect for family dinners or feeding a crowd, this dish balances bold, hearty spices with the freshness of parsley and Parmesan to create an unforgettable plate of pasta comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role, from the spicy sausage that provides hearty depth to the colorful bell peppers that add just the right amount of sweetness and crunch. These ingredients are simple, easy to find, and bring a perfect harmony of flavors and textures to your table.

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot): The star protein, packed with herbs and spices for that unmistakable Italian flavor.
• 1 pound Bow Tie Pasta (Farfalle): Adds a fun shape that holds sauce beautifully and cooks to a tender bite.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Enhances richness and helps sauté aromatics perfectly.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Builds a savory base with its natural sweetness.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the sauce.
• 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped: Offers vibrant color and a mild sweetness.
• 1 medium yellow bell pepper, chopped: Complements the red pepper with a bright, cheerful note.
• 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes: Forms a rich, tangy foundation for the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an earthy, herbaceous punch.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, slightly minty aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste): Gives a subtle kick to awaken the palate.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Lightens the sauce with some savory moisture.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Melts into the sauce for a luscious, creamy texture.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving: Infuses the dish with nutty, salty richness.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbal brightness and lovely color.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every other ingredient.

How to Make Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Browning the sausage well — about 8 to 10 minutes — creates deep, savory flavor. Once cooked through, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Leave the sausage fat in the skillet for extra flavor. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for around 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent, forming a fragrant foundation for the sauce.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Bell Peppers

Next, stir in the minced garlic and both the red and yellow bell peppers. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until the peppers soften slightly and the garlic releases its wonderful aroma.

Step 4: Build the Tomato Base

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing everything thoroughly. This combination forms a robust, tangy sauce that perfectly complements the sausage and vegetables.

Step 5: Add Herbs and Spices

Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes, then add salt and black pepper to taste. These spices bring authentic Italian flair and a gentle heat that enhances the overall flavor.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 15 to 30 minutes. This slow simmer allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Remember to stir occasionally so nothing sticks or burns.

Step 7: Add Chicken Broth and Cream

Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, which add richness and smooth out the tomato sauce into a luscious, creamy texture.

Step 8: Incorporate the Sausage

Return the browned Italian sausage to the skillet and stir it into the creamy tomato sauce, allowing the meat juices to mingle with the sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 9: Add Parmesan Cheese

Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt into the sauce, giving it a savory, nutty depth that makes every forkful irresistible.

Step 10: Taste and Adjust

This is your moment to shine as a chef — taste the sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference to get it just right.

Step 11: Boil the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta until al dente, following the package directions for timing.

Step 12: Reserve Pasta Water

Before draining your pasta, scoop out about a cup of the starchy pasta water. This nifty trick helps you adjust the sauce consistency later on.

Step 13: Drain the Pasta

Drain the pasta well in a colander, ready to be combined with your rich, flavorful sauce.

Step 14: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Transfer the bow tie pasta directly into the skillet with the sausage and tomato sauce. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure each piece of pasta is generously coated.

Step 15: Adjust Consistency

If the sauce feels too thick, stir in the reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches the perfect silky texture.

Step 16: Serve Immediately

This Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, so plate it up without delay for the best taste and texture.

Step 17: Garnish

Top each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and a generous handful of grated Parmesan cheese to add that final, delightful flair.

How to Serve Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan bring brightness and a touch of gourmet finish to the hearty pasta. Adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the presentation and taste even further, making every bite unforgettable.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread. A light Caesar salad or roasted seasonal vegetables also work beautifully to balance the richness of the creamy tomato and sausage sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an elegant touch. For a cozy family dinner, present it in a large, rustic skillet placed right at the center of the table – it invites everyone to dig in and share the goodness together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, this Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic choice for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers to enjoy later; just remember to place the pasta in a freezer-safe container. For best quality, consume within 1 to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to restore the creamy sauce’s texture. Stir occasionally to heat evenly without drying out the sausage or pasta.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner option and will still provide plenty of flavor, though the richness might be slightly lighter compared to traditional Italian sausage.

What if I don’t have bow tie pasta? Can I substitute it?

Yes, you can swap bow tie pasta with other shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even rotini. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly depending on the pasta type.

Is this recipe spicy? How do I adjust the heat?

The red pepper flakes and choice of sweet or hot Italian sausage control the spice level. For milder taste, use sweet sausage and reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, you can replace the sausage with plant-based alternatives or sauté mushrooms and extra bell peppers for a meaty texture and rich flavor.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap out the bow tie pasta for a gluten-free variety available at most grocery stores. The sauce recipe remains the same and delicious.

Final Thoughts

There is truly something special about the Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a big family feast or a casual weeknight dinner, this dish delivers on flavor, ease, and satisfaction every single time. Give it a try — I promise it’ll become one of your go-to favorites that your loved ones will keep asking for!

Print