Cheesy Smoked Sausage Bowtie Pasta

A creamy, cheesy, ultra-comforting pasta dish packed with smoky sausage, tender bowtie noodles, and a rich, velvety sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Because it’s quick, creamy, flavorful, and the smoky sausage adds the perfect savory kick. It’s a one-pan, family-friendly meal that feels comforting without needing lots of ingredients or time.

Ingredients

Pasta & Sausage

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into coins
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

Cheese Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup spinach
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• Red pepper flakes (for heat)

Instructions

Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until lightly browned on both sides. Remove sausage from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.
Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until the sauce becomes creamy and melted.
Add browned sausage back into the skillet and stir.
Add cooked pasta and toss until everything is coated in the cheesy sauce.
Simmer for 1–2 minutes to thicken. Add optional spinach or tomatoes if desired.
Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes.

You Must Know

• Freshly shredded cheese melts much smoother than pre-shredded cheese.
• If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk.
• Browning the sausage adds a richer, smoky flavor.

Pro Tips

• Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to boost the cheesiness.
• Sprinkle crispy breadcrumbs on top for extra texture.
• For a spicy twist, use spicy smoked sausage or add cayenne.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Use penne, rotini, or shells instead of bowties.
• Swap smoked sausage for chicken sausage or turkey sausage.
• Replace cheddar with pepper jack for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or a simple salad.
• Add steamed broccoli or roasted veggies on the side.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
• Not ideal for freezing due to the cheese sauce texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this a one-pot meal?
Yes — cook pasta first, drain it, then use the same pot to make the sauce.

→ Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, peas, and tomatoes work great.

→ Can I make the sauce lighter?
Use reduced-fat milk and cheese, but note the sauce won’t be as creamy.

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