Introduction
Sausage bow tie pasta is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of sausage with the playful shape of farfalle pasta. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes. The savory sausage pairs beautifully with a variety of vegetables and a creamy sauce, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Ingredients and Equipment
To prepare this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:
Ingredients
- 8 ounces bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for cooking sausage and vegetables
- Colander for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Serving bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by cooking the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Remove the sausage from its casing and add it to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and heavy cream. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for Success
To ensure your sausage bow tie pasta turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:
- For added flavor, you can use different types of sausage, such as chicken or turkey sausage.
- Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a more nutritious dish.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
- Cooking the pasta slightly under al dente will allow it to absorb some of the sauce flavors while finishing cooking in the skillet.
Serving Suggestions
Sausage bow tie pasta pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Pair with garlic bread or warm crusty rolls to soak up any leftover sauce.
- For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Nutritional Information
While nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used, here is an approximate breakdown for one serving of sausage bow tie pasta:
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Conclusion
Sausage bow tie pasta is a delightful dish that combines comfort and flavor in every bite. With its easy preparation and versatility, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or put your own twist on it, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the hearty goodness that comes from this savory meal!
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sausage bow tie pasta
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
Sausage bow tie pasta is a hearty and delicious dish that combines savory Italian sausage with creamy sauce and fresh spinach, all tossed with bow tie pasta. It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients
8 oz bow tie pasta
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Remove the sausage from its casing and add it to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture is well combined.
Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet along with the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped spinach. Stir until the spinach has wilted and everything is well coated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
