Italian Sausage with Bow is a delightful dish that brings the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine right to your table. This quick and satisfying dinner idea features juicy sausage tossed with bow tie pasta, simmered in a rich tomato sauce complemented by bell peppers and garlic. With just under an hour to prepare, it’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. So, let’s dive into the steps to create this heartwarming dish!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Sausage with Bow
This recipe is not just another pasta dish; it’s a flavor explosion that combines the savory goodness of Italian sausage with the unique texture of bow tie pasta. Here are some reasons to love it:
- Quick cooking time makes it a perfect weeknight meal.
- Comforting flavors that please both kids and adults.
- Versatile ingredients that you can easily swap out.
- Rich in protein from the sausage, making it hearty.
- Can be prepared in under 45 minutes.
- Perfect for meal prep; it keeps well in the fridge.
This Italian Sausage Pasta is a complete meal that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum satisfaction. It’s an easy way to bring Italian cuisine into your kitchen!
Ingredients for Italian Sausage with Bow
Gather these items:
- 12 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), sliced or crumbled
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How to Make Italian Sausage with Bow Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 5–7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Step 4: Pour in crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 10–12 minutes. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
- Step 5: Return sausage to the skillet and simmer with the sauce for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Step 6: Add the pasta and toss well until everything is coated evenly with the sauce.
- Step 7: Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Italian Sausage with Bow
Keep these in mind:
- This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot sausage.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds extra flavor.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in some heavy cream or cream cheese.
- Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.
Best Ways to Serve Italian Sausage with Bow
This dish can be served in various delightful ways:
- Top with extra grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Accompany with crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
How to Store and Reheat Italian Sausage with Bow
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. This is a great quick Italian sausage and bow tie pasta meal for lunch the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Sausage with Bow
What’s the secret to perfect Italian Sausage with Bow?
The key to a flavorful dish lies in browning the sausage well, which enhances its savory notes. Pairing it with fresh vegetables and quality crushed tomatoes elevates the dish further.
Can I make Italian Sausage with Bow ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the sausage in advance. Just add the pasta just before serving to keep it fresh and al dente.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Sausage with Bow?
Ensure the pasta is not overcooked, and remember to reserve some pasta water for adjusting the sauce’s consistency. This will help you achieve a perfect balance in your dish.
Variations of Italian Sausage with Bow You Can Try
Looking to mix things up? Here are some delicious variations:
- Substitute farfalle pasta for a different texture.
- Add spinach or kale for a nutrient boost.
- Include mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Try a creamy version by adding cream or cheese to the sauce.
These variations will keep your meals exciting while still enjoying the classic flavors of this Italian Sausage and Bow Tie Recipe.
For more information about meal prep, check out our About Me page. If you’re interested in our policies, visit our Privacy Policy for details. You can also read our Terms of Use for more information.
Print
Italian Sausage with Bow: 5 Bold Flavors in One Dish
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta is a quick and satisfying dinner idea. Juicy sausage is tossed with bow tie pasta and simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers and garlic.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), sliced or crumbled
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 5–7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 10–12 minutes. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
- Return sausage to the skillet and simmer with the sauce for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Add the pasta and toss well until everything is coated evenly with the sauce.
- Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot sausage.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg