Imagine the comforting aroma of savory Italian sausage and sweet bell peppers filling your kitchen as you whisk together a creamy sauce. That’s the magic of this Savory Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Sweet Peppers! On a particularly hectic weeknight, I found myself rummaging through my pantry and pulling together what would become a family favorite. This dish not only came together in under 30 minutes but also transformed a mundane evening into a memorable meal.
As the colorful pasta twirls gracefully on your fork, it invites you to explore its delightful flavors—each bite is a harmonious blend of rich creaminess paired with the freshness of herbs and spices. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself to some well-deserved comfort food, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. Want to keep it vegetarian? No problem! Swap in some lentils or extra veggies. Curious about a spicy kick? Just choose spicy sausage or toss in some red pepper flakes! With endless variations waiting to be discovered, this dish is here to brighten your dinner table tonight.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Bow Tie Pasta
Simplicity, This recipe whisks together in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight lifesaver.
Versatile, With options to adapt for vegetarian or spicy tastes, it fits any craving.
Rich Flavor, The creamy sauce beautifully marries the savory sausage and sweet peppers, creating a delicious harmony.
Crowd-pleaser, Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests; everyone will ask for seconds!
Perfect Texture, The bow tie pasta holds the sauce remarkably well, delivering consistent flavor in every bite.
Savory Bow Tie Pasta Ingredients
• Discover the perfect mix for your Savory Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Sweet Peppers.
For the Pasta
- Bow Tie Pasta – A delightful shape that holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully; you can also use gluten-free pasta if preferred.
For the Sauce
- Italian Sausage – Choose sweet or spicy for flavor variation; turkey sausage is a great leaner option.
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; a versatile choice, but avocado oil can work as a substitute.
- Dry White Wine (optional) – Adds luxurious depth to the sauce; if you prefer no alcohol, chicken broth works well.
- Chicken Broth – Provides a savory base; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian twist.
- Heavy Cream – Creates the luscious creamy sauce; consider half-and-half or dairy-free alternatives for a lighter version.
- Salt and Pepper – Key seasonings to enhance the dish; adjust to your taste.
For the Vegetables
- Red Bell Pepper – Brings sweetness and vibrant color; can swap with yellow or orange for variety.
- Yellow Bell Pepper – Adds extra sweetness; feel free to use more red or another colored bell pepper for a unique touch.
- Onion – Adds depth and sweetness; yellow or white onions work well in this dish.
- Garlic – Infuses wonderful aroma and flavor; fresh is best, but garlic powder can come in handy if you’re in a pinch.
For the Garnish
- Fresh Basil – A perfect finishing touch that adds freshness and a pop of color to your final dish.
How to Make Savory Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Sweet Peppers
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Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rapid boil, then add your bow tie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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Cook Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add red and yellow bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
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Deglaze Skillet: Pour in the dry white wine (if using) and chicken broth, scraping the skillet’s bottom to release any flavorful bits. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
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Create Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Season to taste with salt and pepper, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage and bow tie pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together gently to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
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Serve & Garnish: Plate the pasta generously and garnish with fresh chopped basil, which adds a burst of color and fragrance to your dish.
Optional: Serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra indulgent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Savory Bow Tie Pasta Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own; the possibilities are endless!
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Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with lentils or tofu, and add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach for a hearty twist. This swap enhances both flavor and nutrition!
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bow tie pasta to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste or texture. You can enjoy creamy goodness without worries!
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Spicy Sausage Version: Go for spicy Italian sausage or toss in red pepper flakes to elevate the heat level. This zing will awaken your taste buds in every bite!
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Creamy Vegan Version: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream. This variation provides a delightful creaminess while keeping it vegan-friendly.
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Chicken Option: Replace sausage with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker alternative that’s still packed with flavor. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover chicken!
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Cheesy Addition: Top your pasta with freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese before serving. The melted cheese adds extra richness and a comforting touch.
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Baked Twist: Transfer the assembled pasta to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly for a cozy baked pasta dish.
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Herbaceous Boost: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme or parsley instead of basil to change up the flavor profile and freshness in your dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Sweet Peppers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the pasta and prepare the sausage mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply boil the bow tie pasta according to package instructions, drain, and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. For the sausage and vegetable mixture, sauté everything and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sausage mixture and add in the cooked pasta, along with the cream and seasonings, warming until everything is just heated through. This approach ensures that your meal is just as delicious, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
Storage Tips for Savory Bow Tie Pasta
Fridge: Store leftover Savory Bow Tie Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for a quick meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To maintain flavor, make sure to cool the pasta completely before sealing.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess. Alternatively, use the microwave, covered, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Airtight Packing: Ensure the pasta is stored in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain its delicious texture.
Expert Tips for Savory Bow Tie Pasta
- Quality Ingredients: Always select high-quality sausage for better flavor; it elevates the dish significantly and ensures food safety when cooked thoroughly.
- Vegetable Care: Avoid overcooking the bell peppers and onions. Keep them slightly crisp for the best flavor and texture in your Savory Bow Tie Pasta.
- Salt Your Water: A well-salted pasta cooking water makes a noticeable difference. It enhances the flavor of the pasta itself, making each bite delightful.
- Creamy Sauce: For an even creamier texture, let the sauce simmer longer before adding the pasta, allowing it to thicken and meld beautifully.
- Al Dente Reminder: Remember, pasta continues to cook after being tossed in the sauce. Aim for al dente to prevent it from getting mushy in your delicious Savory Bow Tie Pasta.
- Garnish Wisely: Finish with fresh basil or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor and presentation that impresses everyone at the table.
What to Serve with Savory Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Sweet Peppers?
Pair this delightful dish with simple sides that enhance its comforting allure and create a complete meal experience.
- Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery goodness of garlic bread complements the creaminess of the pasta, making it an irresistible pairing.
- Arugula Salad: A refreshing arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery bite that brightens and balances the richness of the sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables (like zucchini and asparagus) bring a lovely caramelized sweetness, enhancing the dish’s flavors beautifully.
- Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread: A fun, shareable side that adds excitement to the table, it’s perfect for soaking up extra sauce!
- Wine Pairing: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc brings a lively acidity that cuts through the creamy sauce while enhancing the dish’s flavors impeccably.
- Dessert Idea: End the meal with a light lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate after the savory richness, leaving everyone satisfied and refreshed.
Savory Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Sweet Peppers Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Absolutely, bow tie pasta is the star of this dish! Its unique shape captures the creamy sauce beautifully. However, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can easily substitute it with gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times!
How can I store leftovers of Savory Bow Tie Pasta?
I recommend storing leftover Savory Bow Tie Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and makes it easy to enjoy a quick meal later. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help restore the sauce’s consistency.
Can I freeze this pasta dish for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze Savory Bow Tie Pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It should be good for up to 3 months in the freezer. Make sure to label the containers with the date for easy tracking. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
What if I don’t have dry white wine?
No worries! If you don’t have dry white wine, you can simply omit it and substitute with more chicken broth for a delicious sauce. This will still give you a rich flavor without the alcohol. Just deglaze the skillet with the broth instead, and you’ll be good to go!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you’re catering to dietary needs, you can easily modify this recipe. For a vegetarian version, swap the sausage with lentils or tofu, and add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach. It’s also a fantastic option for gluten-free diets by choosing the right pasta. Always check labels for allergens, especially if serving to guests with specific dietary restrictions.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
To ensure your pasta stays perfectly al dente, remember that it continues to cook a bit when combined with the sauce. So, cook your bow tie pasta just until al dente according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once drained, toss it with the sauce immediately to prevent it from sticking together!
Savory Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Sweet Peppers Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a rapid boil, then add your bow tie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add red and yellow bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
- Pour in the dry white wine (if using) and chicken broth, scraping the skillet’s bottom to release any flavorful bits. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Stir in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Season to taste with salt and pepper, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Return the cooked sausage and bow tie pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together gently to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
- Plate the pasta generously and garnish with fresh chopped basil, adding a burst of color and fragrance to your dish.
