1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

3. In the same skillet where you cooked the sausage, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté these aromatic ingredients until they’re softened, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.

5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

6. Return the cooked Italian sausage to the skillet and add the cooked bow tie pasta. Gently toss everything together.