Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines savory sausage, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked bow tie pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.
This dish is perfect for any night of the week when you want a hearty meal that’s full of bold flavors. With the spices from the sausage and the smoothness of the tomato sauce, every bite is a delight. Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal prepping for the week, this easy recipe is sure to be a favorite.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Strainer or colander
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients Overview
This dish is made with Italian sausage (either spicy or mild, depending on your preference), bow tie pasta, and a blend of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. You can customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. The combination of the sausage and tomato sauce creates a savory, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender bow tie pasta.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing (if using links) and crumble it into the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and cooked through.
3. Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the pan with the sausage and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add one can of diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes) and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Stir to combine.
4. Season the Sauce
Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sausage and tomato sauce. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
6. Serve
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta!
Recipe Tips
- Sausage Variety: You can use mild or spicy Italian sausage, or even swap in chicken sausage for a lighter version.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Try adding sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to make the sauce creamier.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. A light red wine, like a Chianti, would complement the dish nicely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like! Penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti would all work well.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the sausage and pasta dish for up to 3 months. Store in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Use plant-based sausage or omit the sausage altogether and add vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a hearty, meatless version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of ricotta for extra creaminess. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple Caesar salad to round out the meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil or grated Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble and cook the sausage until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz bow tie pasta farfalle
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage mild or spicy
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh basil or grated Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble and cook the sausage until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
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