Description
A hearty and flavorful Italian dish featuring savory Italian sausage cooked with aromatic onions and garlic, simmered in a creamy tomato sauce, and tossed with tender bow tie pasta. This comforting meal is garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 12 ounces bow tie pasta (farfalle)
Sauce and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- 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 the pasta and set it aside.
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour the diced tomatoes with their juice into the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Season and Simmer: Add red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the dish. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
- Adding a splash of white wine to the sauce in step 4 can add extra depth of flavor.
