Are you craving a delicious and satisfying dinner that’s also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This bow tie pasta sausage recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delightful blend of savory Italian sausage, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, all coming together in a light and flavorful sauce. This recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and offers a delicious alternative to takeout. It’s one of those easy recipes that the whole family will love!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your choice!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 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 (optional, for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the olive oil to the skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the richer the taste becomes!
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook the bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the pasta immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired. This is a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for a weeknight meal.
Tips for the Best Bow Tie Pasta Sausage:
- Spice it up: For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage and increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Add some greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with crumbled vegetarian sausage or plant-based ground meat.
- Use different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
This easy recipe makes for a delicious and satisfying meal. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, making it one of the best recipes for a comforting yet healthy dinner. Enjoy!