Description
A creamy, cheesy, ultra-comforting pasta dish packed with smoky sausage, tender bowtie noodles, and a rich, velvety sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Pasta & Sausage
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12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
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12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into coins
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1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Cheese Sauce
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp flour
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2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
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1 cup shredded cheddar
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½ cup shredded mozzarella
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½ cup grated Parmesan
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
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1 cup spinach
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½ cup diced tomatoes
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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.
Notes
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Freshly shredded cheese melts much smoother than pre-shredded cheese.
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If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk.
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Browning the sausage adds a richer, smoky flavor.