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Farfalle with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Cream

This creamy sausage and tomato farfalle is a comforting, high-protein meal that perfectly balances spicy heat with a silky finish. By using quality Italian sausages and simmering them with crushed tomatoes and a touch of whipping cream, you create a rich, indulgent sauce that clings beautifully to the bow-tie pasta. The addition of fresh basil at the end provides a vibrant, aromatic lift that cuts through the savoury depth of the meat.

Ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish is both quick to prepare and incredibly filling. It is a fantastic option for those seeking a homemade meal that feels like a treat without requiring hours in the kitchen. Serve it family-style in a large bowl with plenty of Pecorino Romano on the side for an authentic Italian-inspired feast.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Farfalle with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Cream

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 450g sweet Italian sausages, casings removed

  • 1/2 teaspoons dried crushed red pepper

  • 160g chopped onion

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 800g can crushed tomatoes with added puree

  • 120ml whipping cream

  • 450g farfalle (bow-tie pasta)

  • 1/2 cup (packed) chopped fresh basil

  • Freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese

How to make Farfalle with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Cream

Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and crushed red pepper. Sauté until sausage is no longer pink, breaking up with back of fork, about 5 minutes. Add onion and garlic; sauté until onion is tender and sausage is browned, about 3 minutes longer. Add tomatoes and cream. Reduce heat to low and simmer until sausage mixture thickens, about 3 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Meanwhile, cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to bite. Drain, reserving 240ml cooking liquid. Return pasta to same pot. Add sausage mixture and toss over medium-low heat until sauce coats pasta, adding reserved cooking liquid by 60ml fuls if mixture is dry. Transfer pasta to serving dish. Sprinkle with basil. Serve, passing cheese separately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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