Bow Tie Pasta With Sausage And Peppers

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Sausage And Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound Italian sausage, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm & Cozy Home Meals

I absolutely love this Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers recipe! It brings together a delightful combination of flavors and textures that always leaves my family wanting more. The bow tie pasta holds the sauce beautifully, while the sausage adds a savory depth and the peppers contribute a vibrant color and sweetness. I find this dish perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions, making it a versatile staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:53:36.328Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The key is in the timing—cooking the sausage until it's perfectly browned while the pasta is boiling makes all the difference. I also love to toss in vibrant bell peppers as they add not just color but also a sweet crunch that elevates the entire meal.

Another tip I discovered is to finish cooking the pasta just a minute shy of package instructions. This way, the pasta absorbs some of the sauce's flavor while it finishes cooking. It creates a wonderful harmony of taste and texture that is simply irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory sausage combined with sweet peppers for an irresistible flavor
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Hearty and satisfying, sure to please the whole family

Perfectly Al Dente Pasta

Cooking your bow tie pasta to the perfect al dente texture is crucial for this recipe. Al dente means the pasta is slightly firm when bitten. For the best results, start checking the pasta two minutes before the package's suggested cooking time by tasting a piece. This ensures it won't become mushy once mixed with the sauce, allowing each bow tie to hold onto those delicious flavors.

When draining the pasta, I recommend reserving a cup of the starchy cooking water. You can add this later to the skillet if you find the dish too dry, allowing the pasta to absorb more flavor from the sauce while maintaining its silky texture.

Choosing the Right Sausage

The type of Italian sausage you choose can significantly impact the flavor profile of your Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers. Sweet Italian sausage offers a mild sweetness, while hot Italian sausage adds a nice heat that can elevate the dish. If you're looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausages can be substituted without sacrificing too much flavor. Just be mindful of cooking times, as leaner meats might brown quicker.

Always taste the sausage before serving, as the seasoning can vary between brands. Adjusting with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the overall flavor balance.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), storing them properly ensures you can enjoy this dish again. Place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To prevent the pasta from sticking, consider tossing it with a little olive oil before sealing.

When reheating, a skillet over medium heat is ideal. Add a splash of water or broth to help steam the pasta back to life, preventing it from drying out. Stir gently until warmed through, keeping an eye on the texture to ensure it stays delightfully tender.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to whip up this delicious pasta dish:

For the pasta

12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound Italian sausage, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have everything on hand so you can enjoy cooking without any interruptions!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to make your Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

Brown the Sausage

Add the sliced Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.

Add the Peppers

Stir in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers and Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta with the sausage and peppers. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy your delicious creation with loved ones, and don't forget to pair it with a lovely salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the sausage for a lighter protein like chicken or turkey. You can also use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor of your Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers, consider adding a splash of white wine after browning the sausage. This deglazes the skillet and captures those tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom, enhancing the sauce's depth. Allow it to reduce for a few minutes before adding the peppers.

A tablespoon of balsamic vinegar can also bring a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory sausage and vibrant peppers. Just sprinkle it in towards the end of cooking, mixing well to incorporate the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your Bow Tie Pasta alongside a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad will complement the hearty pasta dish, creating a balanced dining experience.

For an added touch of flavor, consider grating fresh Parmesan cheese over the finished dish. The creamy, nutty notes of the cheese will enhance the overall taste and add an extra layer of richness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sausage and pepper mixture in advance. Just reheat it when you are ready to serve and cook the pasta fresh.

→ What type of sausage should I use?

Italian sausage works best for this recipe, but you can also use mild or spicy depending on your taste preference.

→ Can I freeze leftover pasta?

It's best to freeze the sausage and pepper mixture separately from the pasta, as the pasta can become mushy when thawed.

→ What can I serve with Bow Tie Pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal.