Bow Tie Pasta With Sausage And Peppers

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Sausage And Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Warm & Wholesome

I am excited to share my recipe for Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers. This dish is a vibrant medley of flavors and colors that makes for a hearty meal. I love the combination of sautéed sausage, sweet bell peppers, and earthy spices tossed with perfectly cooked bow tie pasta. It’s an easy recipe that can be whipped up in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a quick weekend dinner. Trust me, it's as delicious as it sounds!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:05:36.286Z

I vividly remember the first time I made this Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers; the kitchen was filled with such delectable aromas that it felt like a cozy Italian restaurant at home. I discovered that sautéing the sausage before adding the vegetables enhances the dish’s depth, infusing every bite with a flavorful richness. It's a simple trick that makes a huge difference!

Over time, I’ve experimented with the types of peppers and spices to find the perfect balance. One tip I love to share is to use fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, right at the end for a burst of freshness that brightens the entire dish. This recipe never fails to impress, fulfilling both taste and presentation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty sausage adds rich flavor and protein.
Colorful bell peppers create a beautiful presentation.
Quick to prepare, great for any weeknight dinner!

The Importance of Pasta Choice

Choosing the right pasta can significantly enhance the overall experience of Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers. Bow tie pasta, or farfalle, is uniquely suited for this dish as its shapes catch the sauce and blend beautifully with the ingredients. Opt for high-quality pasta made from durum wheat for the best texture. Be cautious not to overcook the pasta; it should remain firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sausage and pepper mixture.

You might consider experimenting with whole wheat or gluten-free versions of bow tie pasta if dietary needs arise. Although gluten-free pasta can behave differently, cooking it just shy of al dente will help achieve a firmer texture that holds up well in the dish. Remember to save a little pasta cooking water; its starch can be a fantastic way to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Fresh ingredients make a world of difference in Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers. The vibrant colors and sweet flavors of fresh bell peppers not only contribute to the dish's visual appeal but also provide a delightful crunch that balances the savory sausage. While red and yellow bell peppers are perfect for sweetness, don't hesitate to include other varieties like green bell peppers for a different taste profile. It’s wonderful to mix seasonal vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition as well.

Adding minced garlic and fresh basil at the end of cooking elevates the dish further, infusing it with aromatic richness. My personal tip is to keep the garlic at medium heat to avoid burning, which can turn it bitter. If you love a bit of freshness, consider a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the entire dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers of this hearty dish, proper storage can keep your Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers delicious for days to come. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or chicken broth to prevent the pasta from drying out. This will help revive the flavors and texture, making it just as enjoyable on day two.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta mixture without the fresh basil and cheese. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can last up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop, adding in fresh ingredients to bring back that vibrant taste.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to ensure a seamless cooking experience.

Ingredients

8 oz bow tie pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the onion, garlic, and sliced bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Season the Mixture

Add the oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine for an additional 2 minutes.

Combine with Pasta

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sausage and pepper mixture. Stir to coat the pasta in the flavorful sauce.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve with Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your delicious pasta dish with a side salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the sausage for a bit more depth.

Serving Suggestions

While Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers is satisfying on its own, there are plenty of ways to make it even more appealing at your dinner table. A light arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Alternatively, serving with crusty bread for mopping up the flavorful sauce is a delightful touch too.

Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added crunch and an extra flavor layer that complements the ingredients. If you’re hosting, pairing this dish with a robust red wine, like Chianti, can elevate your meal further, enhancing both the sausage and the spice profiles.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

Sometimes adjustments are needed when cooking this dish. If the sausage isn't browning as expected, ensure that you haven't overcrowded the skillet; giving the sausage some space allows for better caramelization. Also, if you find yourself with an overly oily mixture, a quick solution is to drain some excess oil after sautéing the sausage and before adding the vegetables.

In case your sauce turns out too thick after mixing in the pasta, don't hesitate to add a splash of reserved pasta water gradually until reaching your desired consistency. This technique not only helps loosen the pasta but also enhances the overall flavor profile due to the starchy goodness in the water.

Exploring Flavor Variations

If you're in the mood for an adventure with flavors, try adding different types of sausage—spicy Italian or even chicken sausage can introduce exciting new flavor notes. For a twist on the traditional dish, experiment with adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean flair, or even a touch of cream at the end for a richer sauce.

Don't forget to play with spices! Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can completely transform the flavor landscape of the dish. You could also use smoked paprika to add depth. The key is to keep tasting as you go to ensure a balanced and satisfying end result that suits your personal palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different pasta shapes?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape, such as penne or rotini.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely for a lighter version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple green salad and some crusty bread make perfect accompaniments to this dish.