Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta
Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta is the perfect choice for a cozy dinner at home or a fun gathering with friends. This dish combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage and tender bow tie pasta, making it a favorite among families. The creamy tomato sauce, enhanced with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese, creates a delightful meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or for special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of savory Italian sausage and creamy tomato sauce ensures a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile: Perfect for both casual dinners and elegant gatherings, this recipe can be adapted to suit your tastes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its hearty ingredients, this meal is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it uniquely yours.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready will help you enjoy the process more.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the bow tie pasta evenly.
- Skillet: Perfect for browning the sausage and sautéing the vegetables.
- Colander: Useful for draining the pasta without losing any noodles.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
For the Sauce
- 1 lb Italian sausage (turkey or chicken sausage works too)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How to Make Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add salt and then add the bow tie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain using a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Add minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage. Cook until the onion becomes translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 4: Add Sauces
Pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Add red pepper flakes if you like some heat and sprinkle in Italian seasoning.
Step 5: Incorporate Cream
Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Let simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Step 6: Combine Pasta
Add the cooked bow tie pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently until all pasta is coated evenly with sauce.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil before serving warm.
Enjoy your delicious Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta!
How to Serve Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta
Serving Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta is simple and delightful. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and color.
- Parsley: Chopped parsley can brighten up the dish with its fresh taste.
Pair with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a perfect dipping option.
- Crusty Italian Bread: A slice of crusty bread complements the meal, ideal for soaking up sauce.
Include a Salad
- Caesar Salad: The crispness of a Caesar salad balances the richness of the pasta.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a refreshing contrast.
Offer Cheese Options
- Parmesan Cheese: Grating extra Parmesan on top enhances the dish’s savory elements.
- Mozzarella Balls: Adding mozzarella balls can create a delightful texture in each bite.
How to Perfect Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta
To make your Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.
- Use high-quality sausage: Choosing premium Italian sausage can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Cook pasta al dente: Ensure your bow tie pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture and bite.
- Let flavors meld: Allow the sauce to simmer, giving time for all flavors to blend beautifully.
- Adjust spice levels: Customize the heat by adding or reducing red pepper flakes according to your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta
Completing your meal with the right sides can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent ideas:
- Garlic Bread: Toasted with butter and garlic, it’s perfect for soaking up sauce.
- Italian Salad: A mix of greens, olives, and vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil bring out natural sweetness.
- Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes and basil, this classic appetizer is always a hit.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy noodles provide a fun twist alongside pasta.
- Antipasto Platter: A variety of meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables complement the main dish beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your sauce or pasta can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
- Overcooking the pasta: Follow package instructions closely. Overcooked pasta turns mushy and ruins the dish’s texture. Aim for al dente.
- Using low-quality sausage: The sausage is the star of this dish. Choose high-quality Italian sausage for richer flavor and better overall results.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds brightness and aroma to your dish. Don’t skip it; add it just before serving for maximum flavor.
- Not following the order of ingredients: Adding ingredients in the wrong order can affect cooking times. Sauté garlic and onions first before adding tomatoes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I serve with Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta?
You can pair this dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
How do I enhance the flavor of Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta?
Consider adding red wine or balsamic vinegar to your sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
Is there a gluten-free version of bow tie pasta?
Absolutely! Look for gluten-free bow tie pasta available at most grocery stores.
Final Thoughts
Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta is not only a comforting meal but also adaptable to your taste preferences. Feel free to customize it with seasonal vegetables or different types of cheese. This dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, so give it a try!
Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine right to your dinner table. This hearty meal features savory Italian sausage paired with tender bow tie pasta, all enveloped in a creamy tomato sauce enriched with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying and flavorful dish that will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (turkey or chicken sausage works too)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 14 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 8 oz can tomato sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and brown the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce; season with red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning.
- Reduce heat and mix in heavy cream; let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing gently to coat with sauce.
- Finish by stirring in Parmesan cheese, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
