One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta because it’s a great balance of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. The sausage adds a rich, smoky flavor that’s perfectly complemented by the heat from the red pepper flakes and the sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce. The creaminess from the heavy cream ties everything together, and the addition of pasta makes this a hearty and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or shells)

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or pasta cooking water)

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

2. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage slices and cook until browned on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove sausage and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Stir in the honey BBQ sauce and honey, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.

5. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or reserved pasta water). Bring to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Return the sausage to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the creamy BBQ sauce.

7. If using, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and becomes smooth.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

This One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta is easy to customize. If you prefer more heat, you can add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a lighter version, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk. You can also switch up the sausage for turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner option. If you like your pasta with a bit of crunch, try topping it with some toasted breadcrumbs or even a sprinkle of crispy bacon for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers of this pasta will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce if needed. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This pasta is best served fresh, but you can cook the sausage and prepare the sauce ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, just heat everything in the skillet, cook the pasta, and toss it all together.

Can I use fresh sausage instead of smoked sausage?

Yes, you can use fresh sausage, but keep in mind that fresh sausage will need to be fully cooked. Brown the sausage in the skillet before adding it to the sauce. Smoked sausage adds a distinct flavor, so using a similar-flavored sausage like andouille would work well too.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level of this dish can be adjusted based on your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. For more spice, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chili peppers.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as farfalle, spaghetti, or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Yes! You can easily add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to this dish. Just sauté the veggies with the onions and garlic to incorporate them into the sauce for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta is a perfect weeknight meal that’s packed with bold, delicious flavors. The smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and tender pasta come together in a hearty, satisfying dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup, making it a go-to for busy nights when you want something flavorful and comforting. With the option to adjust the heat and add extra ingredients, this dish is easy to make your own!