Bow Ties with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Cream 🍝🍅

This hearty and creamy pasta dish is a delightful blend of flavors that will satisfy any craving. The combination of sweet Italian sausage, juicy tomatoes, and rich cream creates a luxurious sauce that clings perfectly to the bow tie pasta. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering! Don’t forget the fresh parsley as a vibrant finishing touch! 🌿✨

Ingredients

For the pasta

• 1 (12-ounce) package bow tie pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the sauce

• 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed and crumbled
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can Italian-style plum tomatoes, drained and coarsely chopped
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions for 8 to 10 minutes, or until al dente; then drain.

2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and red pepper flakes; cook until the sausage is evenly browned.

3. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes tender and translucent.

4. Add the chopped tomatoes, heavy cream, and salt to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 8 to 10 minutes.

5. Once the pasta is cooked and drained, stir it into the sauce, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly. Heat everything together until warm.

6. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Enjoy! 🍽️

🌶️ For a kick of extra flavor, consider adding more red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh basil along with the parsley. Fresh herbs elevate the dish to a whole new level!

Variations

• Healthier Option: Replace half of the cream with low-fat Greek yogurt to lighten the sauce without sacrificing flavor. You can also use turkey or chicken sausage as a lean alternative.
• Vegetarian: Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat.
• Cheesy Goodness: Add a handful of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce just before serving for a salty, nutty flavor.
• One-Pot Meal: If you're looking to cut down on dishes, cook the pasta in the sauce. Just add enough water to the skillet to cook the pasta and absorb the flavors while it simmers.

This creamy bow tie pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy the cooking adventure! 🎉🍽️