One-Pot Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Broccoli

Prep Time: 10 minutes  |  Cook Time: 20 minutes  |  Total Time: 30 minutes  |  Servings: 4–6

Why You’ll Love This Bow Tie Pasta Recipe

This bow tie pasta is an ideal weeknight dinner—comforting, flavorful, and ready in half an hour. Farfalle (bow tie pasta), savory Italian sausage, and broccoli come together in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all cooked in a single pot for easy cleanup and maximum taste. From busy families to pasta lovers seeking something wholesome yet simple, this dish hits the mark.

• One-pot meal: Minimal cleanup, all ingredients cook together for extra flavor.
• Balanced: Protein, veggies, and carbs in every helping.
• Kid-friendly: Cheesy, creamy texture with familiar ingredients.
• Flexible: Easily adjustable with other meats or vegetables.
• Efficient: Dinner in 30 minutes with prep as you cook.

What is Bow Tie Pasta?

Bow tie pasta, or farfalle, is named after its signature shape reminiscent of small bowties or butterflies. Farfalle’s ridges and pinched center give structure to the noodles, allowing them to catch sauce beautifully. Italians have used farfalle for centuries in creamy, tomato-based, and vegetable-forward dishes. In this recipe, their unique shape helps soak up the cheesy sauce for every flavorful bite.

Key Ingredients for Cheesy Bow Tie Pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Sausage:
   In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbles. About 4–5 minutes. Remove excess fat if needed.
2. Add Aromatics:
   Stir in finely chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add Pasta, Broth & Cream:
   Pour dry farfalle (bow tie pasta) into the pot with sausage. Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well.
4. Simmer and Add Broccoli:
   Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. During the final 3 minutes, add broccoli florets (fresh or frozen).
5. Creamy Cheese Finish:
   Once pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed, stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
6. Serve Hot!
   Spoon into bowls, garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs (parsley or basil). Serve immediately.

Tip: If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen consistency as desired.

Pro Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Salt the pasta water: If using a two-pot method, always generously salt the water before adding pasta. Proper seasoning is fundamental for flavor.
• Cook pasta one minute past al dente: Ensures the farfalle is soft enough to soak up sauce in one-pot style recipes.
• Use freshly grated cheese: Melts more smoothly for creamier sauce than pre-shredded.
• Add broccoli at the end: Prevents soggy or overcooked florets. For firmer texture, blanch separately and stir in just before serving.
• Want more veggies? Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or frozen peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Protein Variations:
  • Swap out Italian sausage for grilled chicken, ground beef, turkey, or vegetarian sausage.
  • Omit meat entirely for a vegetarian main—add more veggies and use vegetable broth.
• Pasta Choices:
  • Use whole wheat farfalle for a fiber boost.
  • Try gluten-free bow ties for dietary restrictions.
• Cheese Customizations:
  • Cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for stretch, provolone for subtlety.
  • Blend cheeses for layered flavors.
• Green Vegetables:
  • Substitute broccoli for asparagus, peas, zucchini, or baby spinach.

What to Serve with Bow Tie Pasta

• Garlic breadsticks or focaccia: Perfect for soaking up extra cheesy sauce.
• Simple green salad: Toss with a light vinaigrette for balance.
• Roasted vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or tomatoes for contrasting flavors.
• Wine pairing: A dry white (Pinot Grigio) or light red (Chianti) complements the richness.

Tip: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or fresh cracked pepper for added zing.