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 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Warm & Tasty

When I first experimented with this bow tie pasta dish, I wanted to create something hearty yet vibrant. The combination of juicy sausage and colorful peppers not only brightens up the plate but fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. As the pasta cooks, it absorbs a hint of the sausage's richness, making each bite satisfying. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, and I'm excited to share the secret to making it both delicious and visually appealing.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:16:51.197Z

I remember the first time I made this flavorful dish for a small gathering. Everyone raved about the combination of the spicy sausage with the sweet bell peppers, and I knew I had stumbled upon a winning recipe. Using bow tie pasta adds a fun twist, making it appealing to both adults and kids alike. It's a simple yet effective strategy for elevating a classic pasta dish.

One of my favorite tips is to sauté the peppers until they're just tender; this brings out their natural sweetness without turning them mushy. I also like to mix in a dash of red pepper flakes for an extra kick, balancing the dish beautifully. Trust me; this is a pasta dish you'll return to again and again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty sausage adds a satisfying depth of flavor
Colorful peppers brighten up the dish visually
Perfectly cooked bow tie pasta gives a unique texture

The Importance of Al Dente Pasta

Cooking your bow tie pasta to al dente is crucial for this dish. Not only does it provide the perfect bite, but it also prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. Aim for about 8 to 10 minutes of boiling, depending on the brand. To ensure accuracy, taste the pasta just before it's done. It should be firm to the bite yet cooked through, providing a delightful texture contrast to the hearty sausage and soft peppers.

Additionally, make sure to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be a game-changer, helping to thicken your sauce and allowing it to adhere better to the pasta. Just add a splash and stir if the sauce seems too thick after mixing.

Balancing Flavors: Sausage and Peppers

The Italian sausage is the heart of this recipe, imparting rich flavors that infuse the whole dish. For a twist, try using sweet or spicy sausage according to your preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too, though these may be less fatty, so adjust your seasoning accordingly to ensure the dish remains flavorful.

When sautéing the pepper and onion mix, look for the onions to turn translucent and the peppers to soften, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. This step not only enhances their sweetness but also brings out their flavors, complementing the savory sausage beautifully.

Serving and Storing Tips

For serving, I recommend garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, as it adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the richness of the dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also elevate the presentation and freshness. Serve it warm, accompanied by crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.

If you're preparing this in advance, you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. This dish also freezes well; just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, where it will stay fresh for about 1-2 months.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz bow tie pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Mix all the ingredients well before starting to cook.

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the onion, bell peppers, and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and the peppers are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Everything

Add the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning to the sausage and vegetables. Let simmer for about 5 minutes. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and mix well.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For a spicier version, consider using hot Italian sausage. Fresh herbs can also be added at the end for extra flavor.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. These can be sautéed alongside the peppers and onions, further enhancing the nutritional value and flavor profile of the dish.

For a different twist, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of sugar when combining the diced tomatoes, which can help to balance the acidity and deepen the overall flavor of the sauce.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sauce seems too oily after cooking the sausage, you can spoon off some excess fat before adding the vegetables. This will help you achieve a lighter sauce without sacrificing flavor. Ensure to season as you go; taste testing at each stage allows you to adjust salt and spice levels as needed.

Should you find your pasta overcooked and mushy, you can still salvage your dish by quickly rinsing the pasta under cold water after draining. This stops the cooking process, and you can then blend it back into the sauce, ensuring a pleasant overall texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Yes, whole wheat pasta works great and adds more fiber to the dish.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

You can cook the sausage and veggies ahead of time; just toss in the pasta when you're ready to serve.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can include zucchini, spinach, or even broccoli for added nutrition.