Name: Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe for Easy Weeknight Meals
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie (farfalle) pasta; 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed; 2 tbsp olive oil; ½ red onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), sliced; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup reserved pasta water; 1 tsp chili flakes (optional); Salt & black pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe

Some nights, dinner feels like a mountain to climb—especially after a whirlwind day of errands, work calls, and laundry piles. That’s exactly why I keep this sausage bow tie pasta recipe in my back pocket. It’s my cozy, go-to comfort meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

With bold flavors, creamy texture, and minimal cleanup, it’s everything a busy mom—or anyone short on time—needs. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a one-pan wonder that makes everyone at the table ask for seconds? This dish is easy, hearty, and truly a weeknight hero.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Bow Tie Pasta

If your evenings feel like a race against the clock, this dish is your secret weapon. It’s fast, flavorful, and all made in one skillet—hello, quick cleanup! The creamy texture hugs every bite of pasta, while the savory sausage and sun-dried tomatoes add bold, crave-worthy flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need comfort food fast, this sausage bow tie pasta won’t let you down.

Ingredients Sausage Bow Tie Pasta

This dish is built on simple pantry staples that come together like a culinary symphony. Each ingredient plays its part in creating that rich, creamy, and savory bite we all crave after a long day. Here’s what you’ll need to make this sausage bow tie pasta sing:

Bow tie pasta (farfalle) – The fun shape holds sauce beautifully and gives the dish a playful texture.
Italian sausage – Choose mild or spicy depending on your taste. I love using spicy for that extra kick of bold flavor.
Olive oil – Just a drizzle to get things sizzling in the pan; adds depth and richness.
Red onion – Sweet and sharp, this brings a lovely base layer of flavor to the dish.
Garlic – A must-have in any Italian sausage pasta recipe. It’s fragrant, punchy, and delicious.
Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil) – These add a tangy, chewy contrast and that unmistakable Mediterranean vibe.
Parmesan cheese – Salty, nutty goodness that melts into the sauce and ties everything together.
Reserved pasta water – This starchy liquid helps create a silky, creamy sauce without extra cream.
Chili flakes (optional) – Sprinkle in a little heat if your crew can handle it. I always do!
Salt & black pepper – Season to taste. Don’t skip the pepper—it brings everything to life.
Fresh basil or parsley – A little green on top makes it pop and adds freshness to the final plate.

Looking for measurements? You’ll find all the exact quantities and a printable version at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Sausage Bow Tie Pasta

This easy weeknight pasta dinner comes together faster than you’d think—and all in one pan. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just learning the ropes, this method is fuss-free and full of flavor. Let’s break it down step by step so you can whip up this creamy sausage farfalle with total confidence.

Step 1 – Cook the Bow Tie Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your bow tie pasta and cook until just al dente—it’ll finish cooking in the sauce later. Don’t forget to scoop out about half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining. It’s liquid gold when it comes to making the sauce silky and smooth.

Trust me, that little tip alone will take your sausage bow tie pasta from good to restaurant-worthy.

Step 2 – Brown the Italian Sausage

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Toss in your Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. I like leaving some bigger chunks for texture. Cook until it’s golden, crisp at the edges, and your kitchen smells like an Italian deli in the best way.

This is where the bold flavor comfort food magic begins.

Step 3 – Sauté Aromatics and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Next, stir in the chopped red onion and garlic. Let them sizzle for a minute or two until they’re fragrant and soft. Then add those rich, chewy sun-dried tomatoes. The combo of savory sausage and tangy tomatoes gives this Italian sausage pasta recipe its signature depth.

It’s like layering flavor upon flavor—your skillet practically sings at this point.

Step 4 – Combine and Make It Creamy

Add the cooked bow tie pasta right into the skillet. Pour in the reserved pasta water and toss everything together. Sprinkle in the Parmesan and stir until it melts into a creamy, luscious coating. No heavy cream needed—just that dreamy starch-cheese combo doing all the heavy lifting.

This is what creamy sausage farfalle dreams are made of!

Step 5 – Season and Garnish

Now, season with salt, cracked black pepper, and chili flakes if you’re feeling a little spicy. Give it one last gentle toss. Top with fresh parsley or basil and maybe—just maybe—a little extra Parmesan.

Serve hot, straight from the skillet. This one-pan pasta skillet meal is comfort food that’s weeknight friendly and weekend-worthy.

Tips for Success

Cook pasta just shy of al dente—it finishes in the sauce and soaks up more flavor.
Use pasta water sparingly at first; you can always add more for creaminess.
Brown the sausage well for deeper flavor—it should be golden and slightly crispy.
Chop sun-dried tomatoes finely so they blend evenly into each bite.
Finish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and brightness.

Equipment Needed

Large skillet or sauté pan – A deep skillet works best for one-pan pasta meals.
Large pot – For boiling the pasta until perfectly al dente.
Wooden spoon or spatula – Ideal for breaking up sausage and stirring everything together.
Colander – To drain your bow tie pasta easily.
Measuring cup – Use it to reserve that essential pasta water.

Variations

Make it vegetarian: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage. You’ll still get that umami bite without the meat.
Try a dairy-free twist: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and a splash of unsweetened oat cream for that creamy sausage farfalle vibe—no dairy needed.
Go gluten-free: Just use your favorite gluten-free bow tie pasta. Chickpea or lentil-based options hold up beautifully in this one-pan pasta skillet meal.
Add more veggies: Toss in spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for extra color and nutrition. Even picky eaters won’t notice with all that savory flavor.
Switch the pasta shape: No bow ties? Penne, fusilli, or rotini work just as well and soak up the sauce like champs.
Spice it up: Use hot Italian sausage and double the chili flakes if you love a fiery kick.
Make it extra creamy: Stir in a spoonful of mascarpone or cream cheese at the end for ultra-rich results.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for balance and freshness.
Pair with garlic bread or warm focaccia to soak up every drop of the creamy sauce.
A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a bold red like Chianti complements the rich sausage flavor perfectly.
Top with extra Parmesan and fresh basil just before serving for a picture-perfect finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of bow tie?

A: Absolutely! While bow tie pasta (farfalle) gives this dish its signature charm, you can swap in penne, rotini, or even rigatoni if that’s what you have on hand. The creamy sausage sauce clings beautifully to pasta with ridges or curves, so feel free to use your favorite shape. Just aim for something sturdy that holds up in a one-pan pasta skillet meal.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers of this sausage bow tie pasta?

A: Leftovers keep like a dream! Just scoop any extras into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, I like to add a splash of water or milk to loosen up the creamy sauce. A quick warm-up in a skillet over low heat brings this bold flavor comfort food right back to life.

Q: Is this an easy weeknight pasta dinner for beginners?

A: Yes, yes, and yes again! This recipe is perfect for anyone just dipping their toes into home cooking. It uses simple ingredients, easy steps, and just one skillet. Even if you’ve never made an Italian sausage pasta recipe before, you’ll feel like a pro by the time this dish hits your table.

Q: Can I make this a creamy sausage farfalle without dairy?

A: You sure can! For a dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan and stir in a touch of unsweetened oat cream or coconut cream. Nutritional yeast adds that cheesy, umami flavor without the dairy. It still delivers that luscious, creamy texture that makes creamy sausage farfalle so comforting—no lactose required.

Q: How spicy is this Italian sausage pasta recipe?

A: The spice level is totally customizable. If you use mild Italian sausage and skip the chili flakes, it’s pretty mellow—great for kids or spice-sensitive eaters. Want to turn up the heat? Go for spicy sausage and toss in extra chili flakes. Either way, this savory sun-dried tomato pasta brings the flavor without overwhelming your taste buds.

Final Thoughts

There’s something deeply satisfying about a bowl of sausage bow tie pasta—it’s like wrapping yourself in a blanket of flavor after a long day. Between the creamy sauce, the bold sausage, and the sun-dried tomato zing, this dish never fails to lift my spirits. I’ve made it on hectic weeknights and lazy Sundays alike, and it’s always a hit. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this easy weeknight pasta dinner brings joy to the table—one comforting bite at a time.

So go ahead, grab that skillet and let the magic begin.

Sausage Bow Tie Pasta Recipe for Easy Weeknight Meals