Name: Italian Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 12 ounces bow tie pasta.; 1 lb Italian sausage.; 1 tablespoon olive oil.; 1 onion, diced.; 3 cloves garlic, minced.; 1 red bell pepper, diced.; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced.; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes.; 1/2 cup chicken broth.; 1 teaspoon dried basil.; 1 teaspoon dried oregano.; Salt and pepper to taste.; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving.

Whisking you away to the heart of Italy, this Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta recipe is a celebration of simple yet bold flavors. 🍝 A dish where each ingredient plays a pivotal role, from the robust Italian sausage that infuses the pasta with its juicy, savory goodness, to the al dente bow tie pasta that perfectly catches the creamy, tomato-based sauce. 🍅 A sprinkle of fresh basil and a generous grating of Parmesan cheese elevate this dish, making it not just a meal, but an experience. 🧀 The key to this dish lies in the quality of the sausage - a good, spicy Italian sausage can transform the simple pasta into a gourmet delight. This recipe is a testament to the beauty of Italian cooking, where the magic lies in the harmony of flavors, textures, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. ✨

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta, a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines savory Italian sausage with fresh vegetables and tender bow tie pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and sure to please. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish offers a delicious blend of ingredients that are both simple and wholesome. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta a standout dish.

Ingredients

Here is a detailed look at the ingredients you’ll need to create this savory Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta:

12 ounces bow tie pasta: The unique shape of bow tie pasta, also known as farfalle, holds the sauce beautifully and adds a fun texture to the dish.
1 lb Italian sausage: Choose either mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference. The sausage adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for cooking the sausage and vegetables, adding a subtle flavor and aiding in the sautéing process.
1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a robust, aromatic flavor that complements the sausage and vegetables.
1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds a pop of color and a sweet, slightly tangy flavor to the pasta.
1 yellow bell pepper, diced: Provides additional color and a mild, sweet flavor that balances the dish.
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Adds moisture, tanginess, and a bit of acidity, balancing the richness of the sausage.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Helps to deglaze the pan and adds a savory depth to the sauce.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a classic Italian herb flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides a slightly peppery and earthy flavor that complements the other spices.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and a creamy texture that finishes the dish perfectly.

With these carefully selected ingredients, you are ready to create a delicious and hearty Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta that will impress your family and friends. Next, we’ll go through the detailed instructions to prepare this flavorful dish.

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create a savory and satisfying Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step 1: Cook Pasta

Start by cooking 12 ounces of bow tie pasta according to the package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook until al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. Cooking the pasta first ensures it’s ready to be combined with the sauce immediately, preventing it from overcooking or becoming mushy.

Step 2: Cook Sausage

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Once the sausage is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. The sausage adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish and cooking it first allows the flavors to develop fully.

Step 3: Cook Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Cook until they are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. The combination of onions, bell peppers, and garlic adds a depth of flavor and a pleasant aroma to the dish.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasoning

Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with juices), 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer. The tomatoes add moisture and acidity, while the chicken broth and herbs enhance the savory profile of the sauce.

Step 5: Combine Sausage and Simmer

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The simmering process helps to integrate all the flavors, creating a harmonious and well-balanced sauce.

Step 6: Add Pasta

Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This step ensures that every bite is filled with the delicious flavors of the sausage, vegetables, and sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. The Parmesan adds a creamy, nutty finish that complements the other flavors beautifully. Enjoy your meal!

With these detailed instructions, you’ll have a flavorful and impressive Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta ready to enjoy. Next, we’ll cover some serving and storage tips, along with variations and helpful notes to enhance your cooking experience.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta is a versatile dish that’s perfect for serving immediately or storing for later enjoyment. Here are some tips to help you serve and store your pasta dish:

Serving: Serve the Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta hot, straight from the skillet. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread. For an added touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top before serving. The fresh herbs add a burst of color and flavor that complements the savory sausage and vegetables.
Storage: If you have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before storing. Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Proper storage helps maintain the flavor and texture of the pasta.
Reheating: To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Helpful Notes and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you customize your Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta and make it your own:

Cheese Options: While Parmesan is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a blend of your favorites for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Additions: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. These additions can provide extra texture and nutrients.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the vegetable mixture. This will give the pasta a spicy kick that complements the other flavors.
Alternative Meats: Substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a different take on this classic dish.

Renowned chef Lidia Bastianich once said, "Food brings people together on many different levels. It’s nourishment of the soul and body; it’s truly love." Embrace this spirit when making your Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to create a dish that reflects your personal taste. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out new variations, this pasta dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.