Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta

You know those recipes that you make once, and then they just keep coming back into your rotation because they’re that good and that easy? This Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta is exactly that. It’s rich, hearty, incredibly flavorful, and comes together in about 30 minutes. Total weeknight winner that feels like something straight off the menu of your favorite rustic Italian trattoria.

There’s something so comforting about tender bow tie pasta tossed in a creamy tomato sauce with flavorful Italian sausage and a kiss of garlic, parmesan, and herbs. It’s cozy, it’s satisfying, and—if your family’s anything like mine—it disappears faster than you can say “seconds, please.”

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What Is Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta?

This recipe features farfalle (aka bow tie pasta) tossed with browned Italian sausage in a tomato cream sauce flavored with garlic, onion, herbs, and parmesan. It’s a one-pot style pasta that combines bold sausage flavor with a smooth, creamy tomato base that clings beautifully to every pasta fold.

The sausage gives this dish depth, the cream adds richness, and the pasta? The pasta brings it all home. This is the kind of recipe that satisfies both picky eaters and adventurous palates alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in 30 minutes!
• Uses everyday pantry ingredients
• Creamy, hearty, and satisfying
• Kid-friendly AND dinner party approved
• Perfect for make-ahead meals or potlucks
• Easy to customize with veggies or different proteins

What Does It Taste Like?

Every bite is a perfect mix of spicy sausage, velvety tomato cream sauce, and al dente pasta. The sauce is well-balanced—not too heavy, not too acidic—and gets a savory boost from parmesan and Italian herbs. It’s rich without being overwhelming and has just the right amount of garlic and spice to keep things interesting.

It’s the kind of dish that tastes like you spent hours on it—but didn’t. 👌

Benefits of This Recipe

• Protein-packed from the sausage and cheese
• Customizable: Add veggies, swap proteins, or make it vegetarian
• Perfect for meal prep (holds up great for leftovers)
• One of those “better than takeout” recipes
• Scales up easily for crowds

Ingredients for Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta

• 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or marinara
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Colander

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

• Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers
• Pasta: Sub with penne, rigatoni, or shells
• Cream: Use half-and-half for a lighter version
• Make it spicy: Use hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes
• Make it cheesy: Stir in mozzarella or provolone for extra gooeyness
• Meatless version: Use plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms

How to Make Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the sausage

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.

Step 3: Add aromatics

Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the sauce

Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes.

Step 5: Make it creamy

Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Add the grated parmesan and stir until melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 6: Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve and garnish

Top with extra parmesan and fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Serve hot and enjoy every bite!

What to Serve with Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta

• Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted broccoli or green beans
• A glass of red wine like Chianti or Zinfandel
• Tiramisu or cannoli for dessert (go big or go home!)

Tips for the Best Creamy Sausage Pasta

• Use high-quality sausage—it’s the flavor base of the whole dish
• Cook pasta al dente so it doesn’t go mushy when mixed with sauce
• Stir in a little reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed
• Don’t skip the parmesan—it adds that salty, umami depth
• Let the sauce simmer gently to thicken—don’t boil after adding cream

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk
• Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months, but best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground beef or turkey instead of sausage?

Absolutely! Just add extra seasoning (Italian herbs, garlic, and salt) since sausage is more flavorful on its own.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day leftovers.

Is it spicy?

That’s up to you! Use mild sausage for a mellow flavor or spicy sausage and extra red pepper flakes to kick it up.

Can I use jarred Alfredo or tomato sauce?

Yes, though homemade or high-quality sauces will taste best. This recipe uses pantry staples to make a quick, flavorful sauce from scratch.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a flavor-packed, comforting, and crowd-pleasing pasta dish, this Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta checks every box. It’s creamy, savory, and seriously satisfying—but simple enough for even your busiest nights.

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