When I want a meal that feels hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor, Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta is one of my go-to dishes. The way the savory, juicy sausage mingles with the rich tomato sauce and perfectly al dente bow tie pasta (also called farfalle) always brings a little joy to the dinner table. I’ve made this recipe countless times for weeknight dinners and casual gatherings, and it never disappoints.

This dish is also incredibly versatile. Whether you use spicy Italian sausage for a bit of kick or keep it mild for a family-friendly version, the result is a satisfying bowl of pasta that feels both rustic and elevated. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley and Parmesan on top, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy meal right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta

Quick and easy to prepare – great for busy weeknights.
Rich, savory flavors thanks to the Italian sausage and a simple tomato-based sauce.
Kid-friendly and customizable – adjust the spice level and add veggies as you like.
Perfect for meal prep – leftovers taste even better the next day.
Pairs beautifully with salad, bread, or a glass of red wine.

What Kind of Italian Sausage Should I Use?

When it comes to choosing sausage for this dish, you have a few options. I usually reach for bulk Italian sausage (without casings) because it browns beautifully and breaks up nicely in the sauce. You can also use sausage links—just remove the casings before cooking.

You’ll also want to decide between sweet (mild) or hot (spicy) Italian sausage. If you’re cooking for a family or prefer a milder flavor, go with sweet. If you love a little heat, hot Italian sausage adds a fantastic layer of spice that balances perfectly with the tomato sauce.

Options for Substitutions

This dish is flexible! If you don’t have one of the ingredients, here are a few easy swaps:

Pasta: No bow tie pasta? Use penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti.
Sausage: Substitute with ground beef, ground turkey, or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Tomato Sauce: If you’re out of canned crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce or even diced tomatoes will work in a pinch.
Herbs: Fresh basil or oregano can replace parsley for a different flavor twist.
Cheese: No Parmesan? Try Pecorino Romano or even a touch of mozzarella for added richness.

Ingredients for This Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role in building rich, comforting flavor:

Bow Tie Pasta (Farfalle): The unique shape of bow tie pasta holds the sauce beautifully and adds a fun texture to every bite.
Italian Sausage (Sweet or Hot): The star of the dish, bringing savory, spiced flavor to the sauce.
Olive Oil: Used to sauté the sausage and start the sauce with a rich base.
Garlic: Adds aromatic depth that complements the sausage and tomatoes.
Onion: Provides sweetness and body to the sauce as it cooks down.
Crushed Tomatoes: Forms the base of the sauce, coating the pasta with bold tomato flavor.
Italian Seasoning: A balanced blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the best in each ingredient.
Fresh Parsley: Brightens the dish with color and a fresh, herby finish.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a final savory touch with nutty, salty goodness.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage (removed from casings if using links). Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked—about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion to the pan with the sausage and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the finished dish with fresh parsley and generous shavings of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

How Long to Cook Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta

This dish comes together surprisingly fast, making it perfect for busy nights:

Pasta cooking: 8-10 minutes
Browning sausage: 6-8 minutes
Sautéing aromatics: 5 minutes
Simmering sauce: 10-15 minutes
Total time: About 30-35 minutes from start to finish

You’ll have a flavorful, comforting pasta dish on the table in just about half an hour.

Tips for Perfect Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta

Use high-quality sausage: The better the sausage, the richer the flavor of your sauce. Visit your butcher or choose a trusted brand.
Don’t skip the pasta water: Adding a splash of reserved pasta water helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.
Cook pasta just to al dente: Overcooked pasta will get mushy when tossed in the sauce. Aim for a firm, toothsome bite.
Simmer the sauce: Letting it simmer allows the flavors to meld and deepens the richness of the dish.
Taste and adjust seasoning: Before serving, give your sauce a taste and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
Garnish generously: Fresh parsley and Parmesan add a fresh, bright, and savory finish—don’t be shy with them!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the pasta: It’s important to cook your bow tie pasta just until al dente. If it’s too soft, it will continue to cook and lose its texture when tossed with the sauce.
Skipping the pasta water: This starchy water is a secret weapon that helps the sauce bind to the pasta. Always save a little before draining.
Not browning the sausage enough: Browning the sausage properly brings out its deep, savory flavor. Don’t rush this step!
Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and can become bitter if overcooked. Add it after the onion and stir constantly for just a minute.
Under-seasoning: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the seasoning to make sure all the flavors pop.

What to Serve With Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta?

1. Garlic Bread

Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce on your plate.

2. Caesar Salad

A crisp, tangy Caesar salad balances out the richness of the pasta and sausage.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a colorful, healthy side.

4. Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze make a lovely pairing.

5. Grilled Artichokes

Their smoky, tender flavor complements the hearty pasta dish.

6. Antipasto Platter

Start your meal with marinated olives, cured meats, and cheeses for a true Italian touch.

7. A Glass of Red Wine

A medium-bodied red like Chianti or Sangiovese pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of this pasta.

8. Lemon Sorbet

For a refreshing finish, serve a scoop of lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate after the meal.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers of this dish store wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Refrigerator: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: You can freeze it as well! Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough estimate per serving (based on a standard portion for 4 servings):

Calories: ~550 kcal
Protein: ~22 g
Carbohydrates: ~50 g
Fat: ~28 g
Saturated Fat: ~10 g
Fiber: ~4 g
Sugar: ~7 g
Sodium: ~900 mg

Note: Nutrition will vary depending on the type of sausage and exact brands of ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the sausage and sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, cook the pasta fresh and toss everything together.

2. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely. Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber, while gluten-free bow tie pasta works well if you need a gluten-free option. Just be sure to follow package directions closely to avoid overcooking.

3. What vegetables can I add to this dish?

Spinach, kale, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers are delicious additions. Just sauté them with the onions or stir them into the sauce toward the end.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes—simply skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the sausage and herbs.

5. How spicy is this dish?

That depends on the sausage you choose! Sweet Italian sausage gives a mild flavor, while hot Italian sausage brings a pleasant heat. You can also add red pepper flakes to adjust spice to your liking.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. This is a great recipe for feeding a crowd. Just use a large enough pot and skillet to accommodate the extra pasta and sauce.

7. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Be sure to stir the pasta occasionally while cooking, and toss it immediately with the sauce once drained. The sauce helps prevent sticking and coats the pasta beautifully.

8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Gently reheat the pasta on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway through.

Conclusion

Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends for a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and endless ways to customize it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this dish again and again.

Now that you’ve got the full rundown, it’s time to grab your skillet and get cooking—enjoy every bite!

Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta

Author: Sally Thompson
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Italian Sausage with Bow Tie Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines savory Italian sausage with a rich tomato sauce and perfectly cooked bow tie pasta. Finished with fresh parsley and Parmesan, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes