Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta A Weeknight Winner
This Italian Sausage Pasta recipe is a weeknight winner Bow tie pasta spicy sausage and a rich tomato sauce comfort food at its finest Ready in 35 mins ... Quick & Easy Recipes
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever craved a dish that's both comforting and quick? I know I have! This Italian Sausage Pasta recipe delivers big flavors fast. It’s a hearty bowl of deliciousness with a subtle kick.
Brief Overview
This Italian-American pasta dish is a classic. The recipe showcases simple ingredients. It is straightforward to prepare and sure to satisfy.
This easy Italian sausage pasta will feed 4 people in under 35 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight.
Main Benefits
This Italian Sausage Pasta is packed with protein and flavor. Also, it's a fantastic source of comfort. You know, like a warm hug from your Italian Nonna.
Plus, it's easy to customize with your favorite spices. It makes a perfect weeknight pasta dinner .
Italian Sausage Bow Tie Pasta A Weeknight Winner Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Why This Recipe Rocks
Honestly, this isn’t just another bow tie pasta recipe . Its great for beginners. I've made this Italian sausage farfalle countless times.
It's consistently a hit with my family and friends. Also, it’s a great way to use up leftover sausage.
This recipe is more than just combining farfalle pasta recipes and sausage. The sauce is what really elevates it. A rich, flavorful Italian sausage pasta sauce makes all the difference.
I usually throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy Italian sausage pasta .
The Magic of Sausage and Tomato
The combination of sausage and tomatoes is a match made in heaven. This recipe uses that classic combo in a way that’s both comforting and exciting.
The slight sweetness of the tomatoes plays off the savoury sausage perfectly. The result is a mouthwatering sausage and tomato pasta recipe that will keep you coming back for more.
And don't forget the cheese! A generous grating of Parmesan adds a salty, umami-rich finish. If you're feeling fancy, add a dollop of ricotta or mascarpone for a creamy sausage pasta .
Ready to get cooking? Let's gather our ingredients.
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Killer Italian Sausage Pasta
So, you wanna make some proper Italian Sausage Pasta ? Awesome! This Easy Italian Sausage Pasta recipe uses simple ingredients and bits you might already have.
Trust me, it's easier than ordering takeaway. Plus, it’s a brilliant Weeknight Pasta Dinner choice.
Main Ingredients Breakdown
Right then, let's get down to brass tacks. Here's what you'll need for our Italian Sausage Farfalle .
- Pasta: 12 oz (340g) bow tie pasta (farfalle). Get a decent brand. Cheap pasta can be a bit rubbish, if you know what I mean.
- Sausage: 1 lb (454g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed). Go for a local butcher if you can. The quality makes a huge difference!
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml). Extra virgin, naturally.
- Onion: 1 small, diced. Yellow or white, doesn't really matter.
- Garlic: 3 cloves , minced. Fresh is best, but the jarred stuff will do in a pinch.
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14 oz) can (397g), undrained (or 1 ½ cups /360ml fresh, chopped). San Marzano tomatoes are the business , but any good quality tinned tomatoes will do.
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (120ml), optional. If you want that Creamy Sausage Pasta vibe.
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon , optional. For a Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta kick.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme). Dried herbs are totally fine here.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (50g), grated, plus more for serving. A proper block of Parmigiano-Reggiano is worth the splurge!
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish). Adds a bit of freshness.
Seasoning is Key!
Honestly, don't skimp on the seasoning. It's what makes Italian Sausage Pasta Sauce sing. The Italian seasoning is a good starting point.
Red pepper flakes are your best mate if you like a bit of heat. I love adding a pinch of sugar to the tomato sauce to balance the acidity, it’s a game-changer.
Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage.
For substitutions, dried herbs work if you don't have fresh. Chilli powder can replace red pepper flakes. If you’re making Sausage and Tomato Pasta recipe then you can use passata.
It can be an alternative to diced tomatoes.
Essential Equipment
Right, gear time. Keep it simple, yeah?
- Large pot (for the pasta). Just your standard big pan.
- Large skillet or Dutch oven (for the sauce). A deep pan or casserole dish will also work.
- Colander (for draining the pasta). A sieve will do in an emergency.
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring). You probably have one of these already!
Italian Sausage Pasta: A Weeknight Winner!
Honestly, who doesn't love a good pasta dish? This Italian Sausage Pasta recipe is my go-to for a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner.
It's one of those Italian-American pasta dishes that just hits the spot. Plus, it's so easy even I can't mess it up!
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place
First things first. Gather your ingredients. It makes everything flow so much smoother. Dice that onion, mince that garlic. Remove the sausage from its casing.
Honestly, having everything prepped cuts down on cooking time immensely .
Safety reminder: Wash your hands, folks! You know, basic food hygiene and all that jazz.
Step-by-Step to Sausage Pasta Perfection
Okay, let's get this show on the road. Here’s how you create an Easy Italian Sausage Pasta your family will love:
- Cook your bow tie pasta recipe . Get a big pot of salted water boiling. Add your 12 oz (340g) farfalle pasta recipes and cook until al dente . Don't overcook it. That would be rubbish. Remember to reserve ½ cup of that glorious pasta water!
- Sausage Time! In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon (15ml) of olive oil over medium heat. Add that 1 lb (454g) of Italian sausage. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned all over. Set aside.
- Sauté the goodies. Add your diced onion and minced garlic and cook until nice and fragrant (about 1 minute). Don't let that garlic burn! Nobody wants burnt garlic.
- Sauce it Up! Throw in your diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if you're feeling brave!). Simmer for 5- 7 minutes, allowing it to thicken. Add ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream to make it a creamy sausage pasta .
- Combine & Serve. Toss the cooked sausage and pasta in with the Italian sausage pasta sauce . Add a splash of that glorious pasta water if it's looking a bit dry. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve with fresh basil.
Pro Tips for Pasta Power
Want to elevate your Sausage and tomato pasta recipe ? Here's some wisdom I've picked up.
- Don't skimp on the salt in the pasta water. It really does make a difference.
- If your sauce is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance it out.
- Make-ahead option: Cook the sauce a day in advance. It actually tastes even better the next day. Perfect for that weeknight pasta dinner .
This isn't just a Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta ; it's a taste of home, a comforting dish, and a reason to gather around the table. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes for Your Killer Italian Sausage Pasta
Alright, so you're about to make this awesome Italian Sausage Pasta . Before you dive in, here are a few extra tips to make sure it's absolutely banging .
I've made this bow tie pasta recipe a gazillion times, and these are the things I've learned along the way.
Honestly, they can make or break your weeknight pasta dinner ! Let's get into it.
Serving Suggestions That'll Wow
Presentation matters, right? For plating, I like to twirl the Italian sausage farfalle into a nice little nest on the plate.
A sprinkle of fresh basil and a generous grating of Parmesan? Chef's kiss! As for sides, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta perfectly.
And don't forget some crusty garlic bread for sopping up that delicious Italian sausage pasta sauce . For drinks, a light-bodied Italian red, like a Chianti, is always a winner.
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Refrigerate your Easy Italian Sausage Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating , add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
I wouldn’t recommend freezing this particular dish, as the pasta can get a bit mushy. But honestly, it's so good, you probably won't have any leftovers anyway!
Variations: Mix It Up!
Want to make it your own? Go for it! For a healthier version, you could use turkey sausage instead of pork.
Alternatively, for a spicy Italian sausage pasta , try hot Italian sausage! If you're looking for a vegetarian option, swap out the sausage for some roasted veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.
The possibilities are endless. Don't be afraid to experiment with seasonal ingredients, either. Using fresh tomatoes in summer? Absolutely!
Nutrition Basics
Alright, let's keep it real. This sausage and tomato pasta recipe is delicious, but it's not exactly health food. It's more about the enjoyment.
But hey, it does have some protein and carbs for energy! It's also got plenty of flavor, which is good for the soul, right? Portion control is key here, folks! Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
In conclusion, whether you're making a creamy sausage pasta or keeping it simple, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Don't sweat the small stuff, have fun with it, and enjoy every bite! These Italian-American pasta dishes are all about comfort and flavor.
Now go get cooking, you legend!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Italian Sausage Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Italian Sausage Pasta is great for meal prepping. Cook it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. Think of it as a culinary "set it and forget it" – perfect for busy weeknights!
What's the best way to store leftover Italian Sausage Pasta?
To keep your leftover Italian Sausage Pasta tasting its best, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. It will typically last for 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool down a bit before putting it in the fridge; this prevents condensation and keeps the pasta from getting soggy. Just like your favourite box set, it's even better the next day!
Can I freeze Italian Sausage Pasta? Will it still taste good?
Yes, you can freeze this Italian Sausage Pasta, but the texture of the pasta might change slightly. Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight and reheat as usual. Alternatively, you can microwave it directly from frozen, though it might require a bit of extra time. It's not quite a trip to Italy, but it's a pretty good stand-in!
I don't have bow tie pasta, what other types of pasta can I use for Italian Sausage Pasta?
No worries, mate! If you're fresh out of bow ties (farfalle), penne, rigatoni, or fusilli all work great in this Italian Sausage Pasta recipe. Basically, any pasta shape with ridges or nooks and crannies to grab onto that delicious sauce will do the trick. It's all about getting that perfect bite with sausage and sauce, innit?
I want a spicier Italian Sausage Pasta. How can I add some heat?
Want to crank up the heat? Easy peasy! Use hot Italian sausage instead of mild, add a generous pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce – Cholula or Sriracha would be excellent choices. You could also add a finely chopped jalapeño to the pan while sautéing the onions. Just be prepared to breathe fire; this recipe is about to get spicy, like a cheeky Nando's!
Is Italian Sausage Pasta healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?
While incredibly delicious, Italian Sausage Pasta can be relatively high in calories, fat, and sodium, especially if using full-fat sausage and lots of cheese. To make it a bit healthier, consider using lean sausage, adding more vegetables, and using whole wheat pasta. You could also reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a low-fat Parmesan. Everything in moderation, right? It's all about balance, like having a cuppa with a biscuit – a little indulgence is okay now and then!
