Introduction
Italian sausage bow tie pasta is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of savory Italian sausage with al dente bow tie pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dinner party. The combination of the tender pasta, flavorful sausage, and aromatic herbs creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave everyone wanting more. Whether you’re a pasta lover or a fan of Italian cuisine, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients
To make Italian sausage bow tie pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage
– 8 ounces bow tie pasta
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Follow these steps to make Italian sausage bow tie pasta:
1. Cook the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Add the cooked bow tie pasta and cooked Italian sausage to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
7. Serve the Italian sausage bow tie pasta hot and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Variations
There are several variations you can try to customize your Italian sausage bow tie pasta:
– Add vegetables: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
– Spicy kick: If you like spicy food, consider using spicy Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes to the dish.
– Cheese lovers: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella on top of the pasta before serving for a cheesy twist.
– Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to add a unique taste to the dish.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Italian sausage bow tie pasta turns out perfectly:
– Use good quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. Look for sausage that is seasoned with herbs and spices.
– Cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
– Don’t overcook the sausage to avoid it becoming tough and dry. Cook it just until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
– Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
– Serve the pasta immediately after combining it with the sauce to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
Italian sausage bow tie pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage and the comforting texture of bow tie pasta. With its simple yet satisfying combination of ingredients, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this Italian sausage bow tie pasta will surely satisfy your taste buds.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute bow tie pasta with any pasta of your choice. Penne, rotini, or fusilli would work well.
2. Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a healthier alternative and can be substituted for Italian sausage in this recipe.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best to serve the Italian sausage bow tie pasta immediately after cooking, you can make the sauce in advance and cook the pasta right before serving.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
5. Can I omit the heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter version, you can omit the heavy cream. The dish will still be flavorful, albeit with a slightly lighter sauce.
