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 ounces bow tie pasta; 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed; 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup white wine; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Tasty

I absolutely adore this Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers! The combination of savory sausage and sweet bell peppers creates an inviting flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying. The bow tie pasta is the perfect shape to hold onto all that delicious sauce, and the vibrant colors make a stunning presentation. Whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that simplifies cleanup, making it easier to enjoy the time spent with loved ones.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:25:37.255Z

When preparing this Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers, I discovered that using sweet Italian sausage elevates the flavor significantly. The sausage releases its oils and spices, which mix beautifully with the sautéed peppers and onions, creating a rich and savory sauce. My favorite trick? Deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine enhances the depth of flavor while also adding a touch of acidity to balance the dish.

This recipe is not just flavorful but also adaptable. I’ve experimented with different peppers and even added spinach for a health boost. It’s been a hit at every table, reminding me of simple, hearty meals shared with loved ones. Plus, the leftovers are just as delightful the next day!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and delicious flavors in every bite
Colorful and appealing presentation
Easy to make in one pot for minimal cleanup
Perfect for both weeknight meals and entertaining

Unlocking the Flavor of Sausage

The choice of sausage significantly impacts the overall flavor of this dish. For a slightly spicier kick, consider using hot Italian sausage instead of the sweet variety. This change infuses the sauce with warmth, balancing beautifully with the sweetness of the bell peppers. When browning the sausage, ensure it’s cooked until it develops crispy edges, which contribute an irresistible depth of flavor. This Maillard reaction not only enhances the dish but also adds a savory richness that will linger with every bite.

If you find yourself with leftover sausage from a previous meal, it's a great way to repurpose it in this pasta. Just remember to adjust the seasoning, as pre-cooked sausage may already contain salt and spices. By doing so, you can save time while still achieving robust flavors in your dish. The key is to incorporate the sausage towards the end of cooking to keep it tender, ensuring it melds nicely with the other ingredients without overcooking.

Choosing the Right Bell Peppers

Bell peppers add a vibrant color and crunch to the pasta, but the type you use can alter the dish’s flavor profile. Combining red and yellow peppers creates a visually appealing dish while balancing earthy sweetness with a slight tartness from the yellow variety. If you're looking to add a bit more complexity, try incorporating some roasted red peppers that bring a smoky element to the sauce, adding depth to your final dish.

When slicing your bell peppers, aim for uniform pieces around half an inch thick. This ensures that they cook evenly and retain their shape, providing a satisfying texture against the tender bow tie pasta. If you find yourself short on fresh peppers, frozen varieties are a handy alternative that still preserve most of their flavor profile, making them a convenient and efficient choice in a pinch.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

This Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers is not only delicious but also a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the dish up to 48 hours in advance; simply cook it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to three months. To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy when reheating, I like to slightly undercook the pasta when initially making the dish. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat on the stove or in the oven until warmed through, making your life easier while still enjoying a homemade meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start making this tasty dish.

Ingredients

12 ounces bow tie pasta
1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
1 onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup white wine
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepared before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers.

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Sausage

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking until they soften, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for about 3 minutes, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Combine and Serve

Add the diced tomatoes to the pot along with the cooked pasta. Stir everything together, season with salt and pepper, and heat through. Serve garnished with fresh basil.

Enjoy your delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers!

Pro Tips

For added creaminess, you can stir in some heavy cream or serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Peppers, consider serving it alongside a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The fresh acidity complements the richness of the dish wonderfully. Additionally, some crusty garlic bread can be a perfect accompaniment, allowing you to soak up all that flavorful sauce left on your plate.

Another fantastic way to enhance the presentation is by garnishing the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. This not only adds visual interest but also infuses an additional layer of flavor with every bite you take.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your dish turning out too dry, it might be due to not enough moisture from the sausage or wine. When simmering, it’s crucial to scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate any caramelized bits into the dish, which contributes to the sauce’s fullness. If it still seems lacking, adding a splash of chicken broth or a bit more wine can improve the texture significantly.

On the flip side, if your pasta is too soggy, ensure you’ve cooked it just to al dente before combining it with the other ingredients. Bow tie pasta can absorb sauce like a sponge, so make sure to adjust cooking times based on how you prefer your noodle texture. Draining the pasta thoroughly before adding it to the dish is also vital to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce.

Creative Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by swapping in different proteins or vegetables according to your tastes or dietary needs. For a healthier twist, ground turkey or chicken can replace the sausage without sacrificing flavor. Just ensure you season it well to keep the taste vibrant and bold.

You can also add a variety of veggies like zucchini, spinach, or even mushrooms for a hearty, veggie-packed meal. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using whole wheat bow tie pasta or a gluten-free alternative; these will serve the same function while offering their unique health benefits. Experimenting with different ingredients can lead to delightful surprises in flavor and texture!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! You can use spicy sausage for a kick or even chicken sausage for a lighter option.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to include spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms based on your preference!

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook just before serving for maximum freshness.