Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that doesn't take all night to prepare? Then look no further! This bow tie pasta and sausage recipe is your new weeknight go-to. It’s a simple, healthy, and incredibly delicious dish that's perfect for busy weeknights, and easily customizable to your taste. Get ready to elevate your pasta game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice!), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound bow tie pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook the bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked sausage and drained pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Dish:
- For extra flavor: Use high-quality Italian sausage. The flavor really shines through in this recipe.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference. A pinch goes a long way!
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture.
- Save the pasta water: This helps to thin the sauce and adds starch for a creamier consistency.
Variations:
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the sausage with vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Add some greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and carbohydrates. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the ingredients used. A single serving will likely contain around 400-500 calories, with varying amounts of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. For precise nutritional details, consider using a nutritional calculator with your specific ingredients and serving size.
This easy bow tie pasta and sausage recipe is a fantastic choice for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. It’s a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for busy families and those seeking a satisfying and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!