Bow Tie Pasta With Sausage And Peppers

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Sausage And Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy); 1 red bell pepper, julienned; 1 yellow bell pepper, julienned; 1 medium onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm & Wholesome

I love making Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers because it’s a comforting dish that comes together so quickly. The combination of tender pasta, savory sausage, and vibrant peppers creates a flavorful symphony, and it reminds me of family dinners where everyone gathered around the table. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can craft a meal that will impress and satisfy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or even a laid-back weekend gathering, balancing convenience with deliciousness.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:00:48.108Z

When I first tried this dish, I was amazed at how quickly it can be prepared without sacrificing flavor. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, ensuring everything is cooked perfectly. I recommend using sweet Italian sausage for a deeper flavor, but if you prefer something spicier, go for a hot version!

Another tip I’ve picked up is to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water. Adding it to the sauce can really enhance the overall texture and help the sauce adhere better to the pasta. It's simple tricks like these that make this recipe a crowd pleaser at every meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicious blend of savory sausage and fresh bell peppers
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Colorful dish that looks great on the dinner table

Choosing the Right Sausage

The choice of sausage can significantly impact the flavor of your Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers. I recommend using Italian sausage, either sweet or spicy, depending on your preference. Sweet sausage enhances the dish with a mild flavor, while spicy sausage adds a nice kick. If you want to make it even more vibrant, consider using a mix of sweet and spicy sausages for a balanced taste. For a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage can work well, bringing down the fat content while retaining deliciousness.

When preparing the sausage, it’s helpful to break it into smaller pieces while cooking. This ensures that each bite is infused with that savory goodness. Be careful to cook it until it is browned thoroughly, which should take about 5-7 minutes, to develop that rich flavor. You can also enhance your sausage with additional spices, such as fennel or crushed red pepper, which can elevate the dish's overall taste profile.

Balancing Vegetables for Texture and Flavor

Incorporating a good balance of vegetables is key to elevating this dish beyond its core ingredients. The bell peppers not only add vibrant color but also contribute a sweetness that beautifully offsets the savory sausage. Julienne them to maximize their surface area, allowing for even caramelization during the sautéing process. Aim for a golden color on the edges for a slightly sweet, roasted flavor and tender texture. If you like a bit more crunch, you can sauté the vegetables for a shorter time, about 3 minutes.

You can also consider adding other vegetables based on what you have available. Zucchini or spinach can be great additions, lending a fresh taste and additional nutrients to the dish. If you opt to include greens like spinach, add them at the very end of the cooking process so they wilt but retain their bright color and nutritional benefits.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Bow Tie Pasta With Sausage And Peppers

12 oz bow tie pasta
1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
1 red bell pepper, julienned
1 yellow bell pepper, julienned
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Add the sliced onion, red and yellow bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the sausage and vegetable mixture. Stir in Italian seasoning and a splash of reserved pasta water. Mix well until combined.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the sausage with chicken or turkey for a lighter option. You can also add in other vegetables like zucchini or spinach based on your preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers can be a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the sausage and vegetable mixture in advance and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat before adding the cooked pasta. If you're planning to freeze it, store the sausage and peppers in an airtight container for up to 2 months, but keep the pasta separate, as it may become mushy when reheated.

For optimal reheating, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to the pasta mix. This will help revive the dish and prevent it from drying out. Individually portioning the pasta and sauce also allows for easier meal prep and quick weeknight dinners.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers, consider pairing it with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta and makes for a well-rounded meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, can brighten up the dish as well and add a fresh note.

For a touch of Italian authenticity, serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate. This enhances the dining experience and invites a cozy, family-style atmosphere around your table. If you like a bit of creaminess, feel free to drizzle a little balsamic glaze or toss in a few spoonfuls of ricotta on top before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute bow tie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely and add extra vegetables for a vegetarian dish.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Simply cook before serving for best results.