Italian Sausage with Bow Ties

16 oz. bow-tie pasta (or penne or whatever)
1 lb. bulk Italian sausage
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 1/2 t. minced garlic
1/2 t. red pepper flakes, crushed (or to taste)
2 cans diced tomatoes, drained
1 1/2 cups heavy cream or half & half
1/2 t. salt
1/4 t. dried basil

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, cook the sausage, onion, garlic, and pepper flakes over medium heat until meat is no longer pink. Drain. Stir in tomatoes, cream, salt, and basil. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat, simmer, uncovered for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain pasta; toss with the sausage mixture. Garnish with parmesan cheese, if desired.