Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta

This creamy Italian sausage pasta is made with simple ingredients and incredible flavor; it may look like a simple meal, but it is one the whole family will ask for again and again.

 

 

If you are looking for a creamy Italian sausage pasta recipe, this one is it. It comes together in just 30 minutes and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

It also has perfect flavors. This Italian sausage and pasta dish combines the richness of marinara sauce, a delicious Italian sausage mixture, and a touch of cream. 

It even has extra vegetables from the tomato sauce and baby spinach to give it extra flavors, colors, and nutrients. Each bite will leave you more and more satisfied. 

If you are looking for a hearty and delicious meal that comes together fast, this Italian sausage bow tie pasta is for you. Let’s dive into the details of this Italian sausage pasta!

 

 

What Ingredients Are in Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta:

• Olive Oil: use this to sauté the onions and meatballs, if you use pure olive oil it tastes like butter!
• Onion: this gives a sweet and earthy base for the sauce.
• Italian Sausage: this adds a burst of flavor to the pasta.
• Garlic Cloves: these add a pure garlic flavor to the flavor profile of the creamy sauce.
• Ragu Marinara Sauce: using premade tomato sauce is a shortcut to getting richer flavors.
• Half & Half: lighter than heavy cream, but it blends perfectly with the tomato sauce to make the perfect creamy tomato base.
• Cooked Bow Tie Pasta: this type of pasta is also known as farfalle pasta, when cooked al dente and following this recipe, it will end up as perfect tender pasta.
• Spinach: this adds color and nutrients to the dish.
• Chopped Parsley: this is a garnish, but it adds a fresh note to the finished pasta.

Pro Tip: Using a spicy sausage will give you a spicy dish. Using a sweet sausage will give you a sweet dish. If you prefer your ground sausage meatballs to have a specific savory sausage flavor, be sure to pick an Italian sausage that will give you those flavors.

 

 

How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta:

1. Sauté diced onions in olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until softened.
2. Remove sausage casing and form small meatballs.
3. Add meatballs to the large skillet, increase heat, and cook until browned.
4. Add minced garlic, marinara sauce, Half & Half, and cooked pasta to the meat mixture.
5. Stir everything together, scraping the bottom of the pan, cover, and cook.
6. Add spinach, stir, and let it rest with the lid on.
7. Serve garnished with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips:

• Adjust the cooking time for meatballs based on their size to ensure they are fully cooked.
• Keep an eye on the onions to prevent burning if you plan to cook the meatballs longer.
• Customize your pasta by adding herbs like Italian seasoning, fresh ground black pepper, red pepper flakes, or grated Parmesan cheese.

 

 

Can Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes this Italian sausage bow tie pasta recipe can be made ahead of time! I like to make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for an easy dinner on busy nights.

When I am ready to serve, I gently reheat it in a large pot dutch oven on the stove top, adding a splash of chicken broth or extra sauce if it needs help thinning the sauce to the right consistency.

How to Store Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta:

Store any leftover creamy Italian sausage pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove top over low heat, remembering to add a little water, broth, or sauce to get the right consistency in the sauce.

 

 

Can You Freeze Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta?

Yes, you can freeze this Italian sausage pasta recipe. Place individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing any excess air to prevent freezer burn.

It can freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Pro Tip: If I know I want to freeze this, I will not add the bowties to the creamy pasta sauce. Instead I will make the sauce exactly as written, then freeze it. When I want to thaw it, I will cook fresh pasta and add it to the sauce right before serving.

 

 

Is Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta gluten free?

Creamy Italian sausage pasta is only gluten free if you use a gluten free pasta. The sauce is naturally gluten free, so you can add it to gluten free pasta or grains like rice or rice noodles.

Be sure to check your sausage! Most sausage is gluten free, but it’s always important to check prepackaged ingredients when serving people with gluten free needs.

What to Make with Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta:

Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta is a delicious stand alone meal, but you can elevate it by serving it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian meal.

Some of our favorite Daily Salads are: 

• Farro Salad
• Blueberry Salad
• Summer Corn Salad
• Zucchini Corn Salad
• Greek Salad
• Power Greens Salad
• Fingerling Potato Salad
• Confetti Salad
• Kale Salad with Apples

Additional Pasta Salad Recipes You’ll Love…

• Pasta with Ham and Peas
• Beef Ramen Soup
• Lemon Cream Pasta
• Easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
• Chicken Carbonara Pasta

 

 

What Kind of Sausage Should I Use with Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta?

If you want an authentic Italian flavor in your creamy Italian sausage pasta, choose a mild Italian sausage. If you like spicy Italian sausage pasta, then use hot Italian sausage. However, if you prefer a milder taste, use a sweet Italian sausage.

 

Originally Posted: March 1, 2016

Photos & Text Updated: January 20, 2024

Sharing is caring!