Description
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner idea, this Italian Sausage With Bow Tie Pasta checks every box. Juicy, savory sausage is tossed with perfectly cooked bow tie pasta and simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers and garlic. This easy recipe is full of bold, comforting flavors that come together in under an hour, making it one of the best easy dinner ideas out there. Whether you’re prepping for a busy weeknight or want something cozy for the weekend, this is a food idea that never disappoints. It’s a great pick for anyone who loves hearty meals, quick dinners, or no-fuss family-friendly recipes.
Ingredients
12 oz bow tie pasta
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), sliced or crumbled
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 5–7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 10–12 minutes. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
5. Return sausage to the skillet and simmer with the sauce for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
6. Add the pasta and toss well until everything is coated evenly with the sauce.
7. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
Use fresh garlic and parsley for the most aromatic and flavorful results.
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling to the pasta.
For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 60mg