Savory Sausage and Bowtie Pasta

This savory sausage and bowtie pasta dish is a comforting and flavorful meal that combines rich Italian sausage, fresh basil, tangy San Marzano tomatoes, and creamy butter, all tossed with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. It’s the ideal recipe for a hearty dinner that’s easy to make and sure to impress. The delicious blend of savory sausage, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese makes each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

With its rich, savory sauce and satisfying texture, this pasta dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you’re craving comfort food that doesn’t require a lot of effort. The combination of simple ingredients like ground sausage, tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese ensures a flavorful meal without needing complex steps or hard-to-find ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hearty and Flavorful

The mild Italian sausage brings a savory depth to the dish, while the San Marzano tomatoes create a rich, flavorful sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.

2. Easy to Make

This recipe comes together in just one pan, making it a simple, stress-free meal for busy nights. Minimal prep and cook time ensure that you can enjoy a delicious dinner with little effort.

3. Comfort Food Classic

This pasta dish checks all the boxes for comfort food – rich, creamy, hearty, and satisfying. It’s the perfect dish to unwind with after a long day.

4. Fresh and Herby

The addition of fresh basil leaves gives the dish a vibrant pop of color and a fragrant, herbal note that enhances the overall flavor profile.

5. Customizable

While this recipe calls for bowtie pasta, you can easily substitute with your favorite pasta shape, whether it’s penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Add extra cheese, veggies, or spice as you like.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this savory, satisfying sausage and bowtie pasta:

• 1 pound ground sausage (mild Italian style): Adds savory flavor and a bit of richness to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup finely diced white onion (one medium onion): Sweetness and texture to complement the sausage.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic: For an aromatic depth and savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional, but gives the dish a subtle kick of heat.
• 28 ounces San Marzano tomatoes or whole plum tomatoes (blended until smooth): These tomatoes create a rich, tangy sauce with a smooth consistency.
• 8 ounces bowtie pasta: A fun and delicious shape that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (snipped): Adds a fresh, herby fragrance and brightens up the dish.
• 4 tablespoons salted butter (cut into slices): Rich and creamy, this butter finishes the sauce perfectly.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus additional for topping): Brings a sharp, nutty richness that balances the flavors.

Variations

• Spicy Sausage: Use hot Italian sausage for an added level of spice in the dish.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to make it even heartier.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese to create a creamy, decadent sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the bowtie pasta for gluten-free pasta or use spiralized zucchini for a lighter, low-carb version.
• Add Red Wine: For a more complex flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine before adding the tomatoes.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet or pan, cook the ground sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the blended San Marzano tomatoes, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain, reserving a small cup of pasta water.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce

Stir in the butter slices to the sauce and allow them to melt, creating a creamy, rich texture. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Add Fresh Basil and Parmesan

Once the pasta is well-coated, stir in the snipped fresh basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Toss until everything is evenly combined and the cheese melts into the sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the pasta hot, topped with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use High-Quality Tomatoes: San Marzano tomatoes are known for their rich flavor and sweetness, so using these will really elevate the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente so that it maintains a nice texture when combined with the sauce.
• Add Reserved Pasta Water: If the sauce is too thick after adding the pasta, reserved pasta water will help loosen it without watering down the flavor.
• Finishing Touch: For extra richness, drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top just before serving.

How to Serve

This hearty sausage and bowtie pasta is perfect on its own, but you can serve it alongside a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of red wine for an elevated meal. It also pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a creamy spinach salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little liquid if needed.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta on the stove over low heat with a splash of water, broth, or extra sauce to bring it back to its creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use spicy sausage instead of mild?

Yes, you can substitute with spicy Italian sausage if you prefer more heat.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti would work just as well in this dish.

3. Can I make this dish without butter?

While butter adds richness to the sauce, you can skip it or use olive oil for a lighter version.

4. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to make the dish even more hearty.

5. What can I substitute for fresh basil?

Dried basil or Italian seasoning can be used in place of fresh basil, but fresh basil offers the best flavor.

6. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat and add a little water if needed before serving.

7. Can I use a jar of marinara sauce instead of whole tomatoes?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use a jar of marinara sauce. However, using whole tomatoes gives a fresher, more authentic taste.

8. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or use lentils for a vegetarian option.

9. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this pasta freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

10. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage to increase the heat level.

Conclusion

This savory sausage and bowtie pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food, packed with flavor and texture that will leave everyone coming back for more. With simple ingredients, a quick cooking time, and a rich, satisfying sauce, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

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