When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the mark quite like Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta. This hearty and flavorful meal brings together tender pasta, savory sausage, and aromatic seasonings into a satisfying combination that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or a special occasion. If you’re in search of a dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, look no further than Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta.

Why You’ll Love Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta

🍝 Comforting and Hearty
The bow tie pasta provides a perfect base for this dish, holding up well to the savory sausage and flavorful sauce. The crumbled sausage adds richness and depth, creating a satisfying and filling meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

🌿 Rich in Flavor
Sausage, particularly when it’s seasoned with herbs like fennel, garlic, and red pepper flakes, provides a bold, zesty kick that pairs wonderfully with the pasta. With the addition of fresh herbs like basil or parsley, the dish is enhanced with fragrant, fresh notes that balance the richness of the sausage.

🍴 Perfectly Balanced Meal
This dish combines protein-packed sausage with the carbohydrates in the pasta, creating a balanced meal that leaves you feeling full and satisfied without being too heavy. It’s a dish that works well as a stand-alone meal or as part of a larger family dinner.

🥘 Quick and Easy
Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy nights when you still want a hearty, homemade meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s rich in flavor and looks like it took hours to prepare.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta

1️⃣ Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Be sure to save a cup of pasta water for later, as it can be used to help adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

2️⃣ Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the skillet. Brown the sausage, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked and nicely caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess fat if necessary.

3️⃣ Add Garlic and Onion
Once the sausage is cooked, add the minced garlic and diced onion to the pan. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the onion softens. If you prefer a spicier kick, add the red pepper flakes during this step.

4️⃣ Make the Sauce
To the skillet, add the drained diced tomatoes, heavy cream, oregano, and basil. Stir to combine, letting the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, adding more if needed. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

5️⃣ Combine Pasta and Sausage
Add the drained bow tie pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the sauce and sausage mixture. Allow the pasta to cook in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, absorbing all the flavors. If the sauce still seems too thick, add more pasta water, a little at a time.

6️⃣ Serve and Garnish
Once the pasta is well-coated and the sauce has thickened, transfer the dish to serving plates. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley. The aromatic herbs will add a fresh pop of flavor that complements the richness of the sausage and sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta

🌿 Use Quality Sausage
The type of sausage you use can make a big difference in the flavor of the dish. For the best results, choose high-quality Italian sausage, either mild or spicy based on your preference. Fresh sausage will enhance the flavor of the dish and provide a deliciously savory base.

🍅 Add More Vegetables
To make this dish even heartier, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce. Simply sauté them with the garlic and onion for extra flavor and texture.

🧀 Get Creative with Cheese
For an extra cheesy kick, feel free to stir in some shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese into the sauce. It will melt beautifully and create an even richer texture.

🥂 Pairing Suggestions
Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot. Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.