Bow Tie Pasta With Sausage And Peppers

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Sausage And Peppers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced; 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1/2 cup white wine (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Kitchen

I love making Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers because it’s such a comforting dish that brings the whole family together. The combination of succulent sausage and vibrant bell peppers creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. I often whip this up for weeknight dinners as it's quick and satisfying. Plus, the bow tie pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with taste. Let me share how easy and delicious it is to make this hearty Italian classic.

Created by

Maribel Hawthorne

Last updated on 2026-03-16T11:36:18.720Z

When I first experimented with Bow Tie Pasta and sausage, I wasn't sure how the flavors would meld. However, the moment I mixed in the sautéed bell peppers with the rich sausage, I knew I had created something special. The colors and fragrance alone made my kitchen feel like a warm, inviting space.

Over time, I have refined my method by adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after browning the sausage. This technique enhances the sauce’s depth and lifts all those lovely browned bits off the bottom, making every bite unforgettable. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

The harmony of flavors from the savory sausage and sweet peppers
Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights
Comfort food that pleases everyone at the table

Perfecting the Bow Tie Pasta

Cooking the bow tie pasta to the right texture is crucial for the overall dish. I recommend boiling it until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly after being combined with the sauce. This way, the pasta retains a pleasant bite, enhancing the eating experience. Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking, and don't forget to reserve that cup of pasta water—it's a key ingredient for binding the sauce.

When draining the pasta, be careful not to rinse it, as rinsing removes the starch that helps sauces cling. The shape of the bow tie pasta, or farfalle, is wonderful for holding onto the sauce, creating a perfect marriage of flavors in each bite. If you can't find bow tie pasta, fusilli or penne would work nicely, but keep an eye on the cooking times as they may differ.

Sausage Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right type of Italian sausage can elevate this dish significantly. I prefer using sweet Italian sausage for its balanced flavor profile, but you can also opt for spicy sausage if you want to add a kick. When slicing the sausage, aim for pieces about 1/2 inch thick to ensure evenly cooked bites. Sautéing until they are golden brown not only improves their flavor but also adds depth to the sauce through the fond that develops in the pan.

For those observing a low-fat diet, turkey or chicken sausage can be excellent substitutes that maintain a great flavor while reducing calories. Ensure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as leaner meats may cook faster than pork sausage. Remember, the goal is to achieve nice browning while keeping the sausage juicy.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking experience:

Main Ingredients

8 oz bow tie pasta
1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1/2 cup white wine (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to check your pantry for any essential ingredients you may be missing!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and then the sausage slices. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped onion, sliced bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Combine

Add the diced tomatoes and white wine (if using) to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes. Add the cooked pasta and mix well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to unify the sauce. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers!

Eating right away will give you the best flavor and texture! Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added depth, try using spicy sausage or adding red pepper flakes for a kick. Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or even as a side. For a creamier variation, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or some cream cheese just before serving. This will give the sauce a rich texture and a slightly different flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the peppers.

Pair this dish with a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to balance out the heartiness of the pasta. Serving with crusty bread on the side is also a fantastic idea, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the top right before serving adds a complementary salty kick.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you’re looking to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can cook the sausage and veggies in advance. Simply cool them down and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, just reheat in a skillet and toss in the cooked pasta along with the tomatoes and any reserved pasta water to bring it all together.

For freezing, you can store the fully assembled dish in an airtight container for up to three months. Just remember to defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. A quick reheat on the stovetop over medium heat usually does the trick, just until heated through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Is this dish freezable?

Yes, it can be frozen. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the sausage with vegetarian sausage or a mix of mushrooms for a hearty alternative.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A fresh garden salad or garlic bread would be perfect accompaniments!