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One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta

One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta

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Short Description

One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that delivers sweet, spicy, and smoky notes all in one pan. Made with spicy Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a rich honey BBQ-tomato sauce, it’s topped with melty mozzarella and fresh parsley for a comforting meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Skillet Simplicity: Easy preparation and cleanup with everything cooked in one pan.

  • Flavor-Packed: Combines spicy sausage, tangy BBQ sauce, and gooey cheese.

  • Quick Weeknight Dinner: Ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy evenings.

  • Customizable Heat: Adjust red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.

  • Family Favorite: A hearty, satisfying meal that’s both kid- and adult-approved.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 12 oz pasta

  • 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce

  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Brown the Sausage:
    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, crumbling it with a spoon as it cooks.

  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
    Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

  3. Add Sauce Ingredients:
    Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, honey BBQ sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

  4. Cook the Pasta:
    Add pasta directly to the skillet, ensuring it is mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has reduced.

  5. Add Cheese:
    Stir in shredded mozzarella until melted and well distributed throughout the pasta.

  6. Garnish and Serve:
    Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4–6

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Milder Version: Use sweet Italian sausage and reduce or omit red pepper flakes.

  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.

  • Cheese Swap: Try shredded cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor.

  • Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking.

  • Creamier Texture: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or cream cheese for added richness.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

  • Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and cheese may change upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rotini, fusilli, or shells all work well in this recipe.

What can I substitute for honey BBQ sauce?

You can use regular BBQ sauce and add a tablespoon of honey for sweetness.

Is it necessary to remove sausage casings?

Yes, removing the casings makes it easier to crumble and incorporate into the sauce.

Can I make it less spicy?

Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and use mild sausage instead of spicy.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely—spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms pair well with the existing flavors.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, but cheddar or a blend can also be used for more robust flavor.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally while simmering to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Can I make this dish ahead?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat before serving.

What type of skillet should I use?

A large, deep non-stick or stainless-steel skillet with a lid works best.

Does this recipe double well?

Yes, you can double the ingredients for larger servings. Use a larger skillet or Dutch oven to accommodate the volume.

Conclusion

One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta is a bold and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. With its sweet, smoky sauce, hearty sausage, and cheesy finish, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy it straight from the skillet for a comforting dinner the whole family will love.

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One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta

One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

This One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner—bold, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Spicy Italian sausage, tangy honey BBQ sauce, and melty mozzarella come together with pasta in a single skillet for a no-fuss, comfort food classic that’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne or preferred shape)

  • 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce

  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Brown Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, crumbling it as it cooks.

  • Sauté Aromatics: Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2–3 minutes.

  • Add Liquids & Pasta: Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix in pasta, ensuring it’s mostly submerged.

  • Cook Pasta: Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until pasta is al dente, about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  • Add Cheese: Stir in mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.

  • Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Adjust red pepper flakes for more or less heat.

  • Use smoked sausage or kielbasa for a twist.

  • Great for leftovers—reheats well the next day!

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