Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the robust flavors of spicy Italian sausage with the delicate, chewy texture of farfalle pasta, often referred to as bow tie pasta. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering an elegant yet simple way to enjoy a homemade meal that feels gourmet. The creamy sauce, aromatic herbs, and savory sausage create a rich and satisfying combination that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit individual tastes and dietary needs, making it a staple in many households.
The History of Italian Sausage With Pasta
Italian sausage has a rich history tied to the culinary traditions of Italy, where sausage-making dates back to ancient Rome. Crafted from seasoned pork, the flavors of Italian sausage are defined by fennel, garlic, and red pepper flakes, which reflect the regional diversity of Italian cuisine. Pairing sausage with pasta is a testament to Italy’s love for hearty, satisfying meals that celebrate the natural flavors of fresh ingredients. Bow tie pasta, or farfalle, originated in the Emilia-Romagna and Lombardy regions of Italy and was first documented in the 16th century. Its unique shape is not just aesthetically pleasing but also functional, as it holds sauces beautifully. The combination of Italian sausage and bow tie pasta has become a beloved dish across the world, offering a harmonious balance of bold flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Bow Tie Pasta (Farfalle): Known for its playful shape, this pasta holds creamy sauces well and adds a delightful texture to the dish.
- Italian Sausage: Spicy or mild sausage adds a burst of flavor and protein, making it the heart of the recipe.
- Garlic: Essential for its aromatic and savory notes, garlic enhances the depth of the sauce.
- Tomato Paste: Adds concentrated tomato flavor, lending richness and a beautiful color to the dish.
- Dried Basil and Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: These spices bring warmth and an herby aroma, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- White Wine: A deglazing ingredient that introduces a subtle tanginess and complexity to the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a luscious, velvety sauce that ties all the ingredients together.
- Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes: Add a smoky undertone and juicy texture to the dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Provides a nutty, savory finish that complements the creamy sauce and sausage.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water for the sauce before draining.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat until the butter has melted. Add the Italian sausage, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it into small pieces until browned.
- Add garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture darkens in color.
- Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated.
- Stir in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes and heavy cream, mixing well. Simmer for 5-6 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the dish is hot and glossy.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and additional grated Parmesan.
Tips for the Perfect Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta
- Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor; spicy varieties add a kick, while mild options keep it kid-friendly.
- Cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid overcooking when combining with the sauce.
- Reserve enough pasta water; its starchiness helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Don’t rush the sauce—letting it simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Freshly grated Parmesan provides a better flavor than pre-grated versions.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or plant-based sausage.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Cheese Variations: Use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or mix in ricotta for extra creaminess.
- Additional Veggies: Add spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and nutrients.
- Spicier Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for more heat.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While this dish is indulgent, it can be made lighter by substituting half-and-half for heavy cream or using turkey sausage. Whole-grain or gluten-free pasta can also boost its nutritional profile. The sausage provides protein, while the tomatoes and herbs deliver vitamins and antioxidants. However, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and the sodium content from sausage and Parmesan cheese.
FAQ
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, prepare the sauce in advance and cook the pasta fresh before serving.
- What wine pairs well with this dish? A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce.
- How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta
Ingredients
- 16 ounces of farfalle bowtie pasta
- 2 pounds of hot Italian sausage crumbled
- 24 ounces of freshly shredded mozzarella cheese feel free to use more if desired
- 1 large onion chopped
- 3-4 cloves of garlic minced
- 28 ounces of petite diced tomatoes including the juice
- 1½ teaspoons of oregano
- 1½ teaspoons of basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the sausage from its casing and place it in a large skillet.
- Cook over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles, until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Drain the grease, reserving 2 tablespoons, and set the cooked sausage aside.
- Return the reserved grease to the skillet, then add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Add the diced tomatoes, including their juice, to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
- Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Pour the sausage and tomato mixture into the pot with the pasta and stir to combine.
- Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until fully incorporated and melted.
- Serve the dish on its own or with a side of salad and garlic bread.