Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Welcome to a delicious culinary adventure with a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite – Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta! This hearty and flavorful dish combines the rich, creamy goodness of cheese with the savory kick of andouille sausage, creating a mouthwatering symphony of flavors.

In this recipe, the Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta takes center stage, offering a delightful combination of tender pasta, spicy sausage, and gooey melted cheese. The dish is a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence, making it ideal for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests with a hearty meal.

With the perfect balance of creamy cheeses, zesty seasonings, and the smoky flavor of andouille sausage, this Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta is a true crowd-pleaser. Get ready to dive into a bowl of cheesy goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Quick Benefits

• Rich and cheesy flavors from sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese
• Spicy kick from the andouille sausage and optional jalapeño
• One-pot meal that combines protein, carbs, and veggies for a satisfying dish

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta Recipe Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of andouille sausage, fire roasted tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices creates a flavorful explosion in every bite.
• Easy One-Pot Meal: This recipe is a one-pot wonder, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without a ton of cleanup.
• Cheesy Goodness: With both sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese, this pasta is rich, creamy, and cheesy, appealing to cheese lovers.
• Customizable Heat: The addition of jalapeños and Cajun seasoning allows you to customize the level of heat in the dish to suit your taste preferences.
• Family Favorite: This hearty and comforting dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family, making it a great recipe for gatherings and potlucks.
• Satisfying and Filling: The combination of pasta, sausage, and cheese makes this dish satisfying and filling, perfect for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients for Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 6-7 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 oz bow tie pasta
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 jalapeño, diced (optional)

Liquid Base

• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half
• 14.5 oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes

Cheese and Seasonings

• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1-2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (optional)
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• 8 oz pepper jack cheese, grated

How to Make Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pan or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt olive oil and butter. Add diced bell peppers, onion, and jalapeño (if desired) and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in all seasonings.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Move the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the sliced andouille sausage. Cook until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

Mix in fire-roasted diced tomatoes, half and half, chicken broth, and bow tie pasta, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged. Add extra broth if necessary to cover the pasta completely.

Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta is Done

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Add Cheese

After cooking the pasta, remove from heat and gradually stir in grated cheddar and pepper jack cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot while cheese is still melted; let sit for 2-3 minutes for a thicker texture, if desired.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta, store any leftovers properly to maintain freshness. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the pasta within two hours of cooking to prevent bacteria growth. The pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat the Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta, you can microwave individual portions or reheat larger quantities on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pasta while reheating to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Once reheated thoroughly, enjoy the delicious flavors of the cheesy, sausage-infused pasta dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make substitutions for this Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta recipe, consider using different types of bell peppers such as yellow or orange instead of red or green. You can also swap the andouille sausage for Italian sausage or chorizo for a different flavor profile. If you don’t have half and half, you can use a mixture of milk and heavy cream or even just whole milk for a creamier texture.

For the cheeses, feel free to experiment with different combinations such as mozzarella, Gouda, or Swiss if you don’t have sharp cheddar or pepper jack on hand. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference, or substitute it with a mix of paprika, cayenne, and thyme for a similar flavor profile. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients or based on what you have available in your pantry.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion with the Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta, consider baking the pasta mixture in individual ramekins topped with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for added crunch. Serve these mini casseroles straight from the oven for an elegant presentation that will impress your guests.

Another fun way to serve the Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta is to stuff the mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers or large tomatoes. Bake until the vegetables are tender and the cheesy pasta is bubbly. This unique presentation adds a colorful touch to the dish and makes it a fun and interactive way for guests to enjoy their meal.

FAQs for Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Penne, rotini, or even spaghetti would work well with this cheesy sausage sauce.

Is there a substitute for andouille sausage if I can’t find it?

If you can’t find andouille sausage, you can use any smoked sausage like kielbasa or chorizo as a substitute. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

If you prefer a milder version of this dish, you can omit the jalapeño and reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning used. Adjusting the spice levels to suit your preference will not compromise the overall flavor of the dish.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our culinary journey with this delectable Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta recipe, I hope you have enjoyed the process of creating a dish that is not only flavorful but also comforting. The blend of savory sausage, rich cheeses, and perfectly cooked pasta is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Remember, cooking is not just about following a recipe; it’s about infusing your own creativity and love into every dish you make.

So, whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight meal for your family or looking to impress guests at a gathering, this Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta is a versatile and satisfying choice. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices to make it truly your own. Embrace the joy of cooking, and let the delicious aroma of this dish fill your kitchen with warmth and happiness. Cheers to many more delightful culinary adventures ahead, starting with a plateful of Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta!

Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta Recipe

“Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy, flavorful Cheesy Sausage Bowtie Pasta, a perfect blend of spices and cheese.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 Minutes

Cook Time15 Minutes

Total Time30 Minutes

CuisineCajun

Skill LevelEasy

Servings8 Servings (8 generous servings)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 6-7 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 oz bow tie pasta
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 jalapeño, diced (optional)

Liquid Base

• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half
• 14.5 oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes

Cheese and Seasonings

• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1-2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (optional)
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• 8 oz pepper jack cheese, grated

Instructions

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pan or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt olive oil and butter. Add diced bell peppers, onion, and jalapeño (if desired) and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in all seasonings.
2. Brown the Sausage: Move the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the sliced andouille sausage. Cook until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
3. Add Liquids and Pasta: Mix in fire-roasted diced tomatoes, half and half, chicken broth, and bow tie pasta, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged. Add extra broth if necessary to cover the pasta completely.
4. Simmer Until Pasta is Done: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Add Cheese: After cooking the pasta, remove from heat and gradually stir in grated cheddar and pepper jack cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Serve Hot: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot while cheese is still melted; let sit for 2-3 minutes for a thicker texture, if desired.