This dish is a fun mix of bow tie pasta and tasty Italian sausage. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
I love how the shapes of the pasta make each bite feel like a little party. Plus, who can resist those yummy sausage bits? It’s like a hug in a bowl! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bow Tie Pasta: This unique shape holds onto the sauce beautifully. If you can’t find bow ties, try fusilli or penne. Both work well and add a fun twist!
Italian Sausage: I love using a mix of mild and spicy sausage for extra flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey sausage can be a great substitute. It still packs that meaty goodness!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, you can replace it with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream. Just keep in mind the texture might be slightly different.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor. If you’re out, feta or mozzarella can be used, but the taste will shift a bit. Nutritional yeast is also a fun vegan option!
How Do I Ensure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your pasta just right is essential. Here’s how to do it:
- Always use plenty of water and add salt; it should taste like the sea!
- Follow the package instructions carefully, but take a few minutes off the cooking time for ‘al dente’ – it should have a slight bite.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta but save a bit of that pasta water! It can help your sauce cling better later.
Perfectly cooked pasta makes your dish shine, so don’t rush this step!
Easy Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe should take around 20-25 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 15 minutes preparing the sauce. Simple and quick for a delightful dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Go ahead and add the bow tie pasta, cooking according to the package directions until it’s al dente—this should take around 8-10 minutes. Once it’s cooked to your liking, drain the pasta and set it aside. This keeps it ready for the delicious sauce!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
While your pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. The kitchen will start to smell amazing!
3. Brown the Sausage:
Next, add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Let it cook until it turns a nice golden brown and is cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. You might want to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.
4. Add Flavor:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and, if you like a little spice, toss in the red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for about 30 seconds until you can smell the garlic—it’s all about developing those beautiful flavors!
5. Create the Sauce:
Once the garlic is fragrant, add the drained diced tomatoes. Let everything simmer for about 3-4 minutes, so the flavors can meld together nicely. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring everything to combine into a creamy, dreamy sauce.
6. Finish It Off:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to your sauce and stir until it’s melted and the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy. Taste your sauce and season it with salt and black pepper according to your liking.
7. Combine and Serve:
Finally, add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. It should look appetizingly delicious! Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or basil to add that lovely, fresh touch.
Enjoy your delightful and easy Italian sausage bow tie pasta! You’re going to love it! 🍝
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for Italian sausage. Just add some Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, and garlic powder) to give it that classic flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Just replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms and a mix of vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty, veggie-packed dish. Adjust the seasoning to taste!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
What Should I Serve with This Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty garlic bread. You could also serve it with sautéed vegetables for a complete meal!
