Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this one skillet spicy honey BBQ sausage pasta! It’s the kind of dish that just makes your taste buds dance and your kitchen smell amazing—all while being super easy to whip up. Seriously, I love meals that come together in one pan because it means less cleanup and more time to relax, right? This pasta is a delightful mix of savory spicy sausage and a touch of sweetness from the honey BBQ sauce, all mingling together with perfectly cooked pasta. You get a bit of spice, a hint of sweetness, and a whole lot of flavor, all in one glorious, comforting meal. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe is a lifesaver and a flavor bomb. Are you ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz pasta (your favorite shape works great!)
- 1 lb spicy sausage (I love using Italian sausage for that kick!)
- 1 cup honey BBQ sauce (get ready for that sweet and smoky goodness)
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color you fancy adds a pop of color)
- 1 cup onion, chopped (for that aromatic base)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (because, let’s be real, garlic makes everything better)
- 1 cup chicken broth (for that rich flavor infusion)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (to get things sizzling)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
How to Prepare One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta
- First things first, grab your trusty skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. You want it nice and hot, ready to work its magic!
- Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they’re soft and fragrant. This is where the kitchen starts smelling incredible!
- Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet and let it cook for just another minute. Be careful not to let it burn; we want it to add flavor, not bitterness!
- Next, it’s time to add the spicy sausage. Just take off the casing and crumble it into the skillet. Cook it until it’s nicely browned—about 5 to 7 minutes should do the trick. You want it to get that lovely color and juicy texture.
- Now for the fun part—add the pasta, chicken broth, and honey BBQ sauce to the skillet. Stir everything together so that the pasta is well-coated with that delicious sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. You’ll want to cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed all that flavorful goodness.
- Before serving, taste your creation and season with salt and pepper to your liking. You might be surprised at how a little seasoning can elevate the dish!
- Now, scoop yourself a generous portion and serve it hot. Enjoy the comforting, spicy, and sweet flavors that make this dish a winner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- One skillet wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax and enjoy your meal; just one pan does it all!
- Flavor explosion: The combination of spicy sausage and sweet honey BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering taste that’s sure to impress.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt it to your taste by swapping out the sausage or adding your favorite veggies.
- Kid-friendly: The sweet and savory flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults alike—everyone’s happy!
- Comfort food: It’s hearty, filling, and oh-so-satisfying; the kind of meal that wraps you in a cozy hug!
Tips for Success
Getting this one skillet spicy honey BBQ sausage pasta just right is all about the little details! Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
- Don’t rush the sauté: Take your time when cooking the onions and bell peppers. You want them soft and caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness, which adds depth to the dish.
- Use a good-quality sausage: The sausage is the star here, so choose one that you love! If you’re feeling adventurous, try different types, like chorizo or andouille, to change up the flavor profile.
- Adjust the BBQ sauce: Depending on your taste preference, feel free to tweak the amount of honey BBQ sauce. If you like it sweeter, go for a bit more; if you prefer it spicier, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper!
- Check your pasta: Different pasta shapes may have different cooking times, so keep an eye on it! You want it al dente, not mushy, so taste it a minute or two before the recommended time.
- Don’t forget the seasoning: Always taste before serving! A little sprinkle of salt and pepper can make a huge difference in bringing all those flavors together.
- Garnish for flair: If you want to elevate your dish, consider topping it with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. It adds a lovely finish!
With these tips up your sleeve, you’re all set to create a delicious meal that will wow your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this one skillet spicy honey BBQ sausage pasta is how flexible it is! You can easily switch things up to keep it exciting for your taste buds. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Different Sausage Types: Don’t feel limited to just spicy sausage! Try using turkey sausage for a leaner option, or go for a smoky sausage like kielbasa for a different flavor twist.
- Pasta Shapes Galore: Switch up the pasta shape to keep things fun! Penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta all work beautifully. Just remember to adjust cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
- Veggie Power: Feel free to add more veggies! Zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms would be delicious additions. Just toss them in with the onions and bell peppers to cook until tender.
- Spice Level: If you like things fiery, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños with the sausage. You’ll get that spicy kick that really amps up the flavor!
- Cheesy Goodness: For a creamy twist, mix in some cream cheese or shredded cheese right before serving. It’ll add a rich, comforting texture that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs! Basil, cilantro, or even a sprinkle of thyme can add a burst of freshness that takes the dish to the next level.
These variations are just starting points! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this dish your own. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to hear what combinations you come up with!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, so you’ve made this delicious one skillet spicy honey BBQ sausage pasta and now you’ve got some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store them properly so you can enjoy this flavor bomb again later!
First up, let your pasta cool completely before storing it. You don’t want it to steam in the container, which can make it soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days—perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch!
If you want to keep it for a longer time, consider freezing it! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, and it’ll stay fresh for about 2 to 3 months. Just make sure to label them with the date so you know when they were made!
Now, when it’s time to reheat, I’ve got some tips for you. If you’re reheating from the fridge, pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it from drying out; trust me, it makes a world of difference!
If you’re going the oven route (which I love for that extra warmth), preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place your pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps it nice and saucy!
Just remember, the key to keeping that flavor and texture intact is to avoid overheating. You want your pasta warm and inviting, not dried out or rubbery. So, enjoy those leftovers with confidence—you’ve got this!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying this one skillet spicy honey BBQ sausage pasta, it’s always nice to know what’s going into your delicious meal! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 20g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, especially if you customize the recipe. But don’t let the numbers scare you—this dish packs a punch of flavor and satisfaction, making it a wonderful addition to your meal rotation!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! This one skillet spicy honey BBQ sausage pasta is super versatile. You can swap in turkey sausage for a lighter option, or even use chicken sausage if you prefer. The flavor will vary, but it’ll still be delicious!
What if I don’t have honey BBQ sauce?
No worries! You can easily make a quick substitute by mixing regular BBQ sauce with a bit of honey or brown sugar to achieve that sweet and tangy flavor. Just adjust it to your taste!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Just follow the instructions, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat as directed!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free pasta, then yes! This dish can easily be made gluten-free, making it suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions. Just double-check your BBQ sauce to ensure it’s gluten-free as well!
How can I make this spicier?
If you’re looking for a little more heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños along with the sausage. You can also use a spicier sausage if you really want to turn up the heat!
What sides go well with this pasta?
This one skillet spicy honey BBQ sausage pasta is quite hearty on its own, but if you want to add some sides, consider a simple green salad or some garlic bread to complement the meal. A side of roasted veggies would also be a great choice!
Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in any veggies you love. Spinach, zucchini, or even corn would be fabulous additions. Just add them in when you sauté the onions and peppers so they get nice and tender!
How long does the dish last in the fridge?
If stored properly in an airtight container, your pasta will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Perfect for leftovers! Just remember to reheat it gently for the best taste.
One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta That Wows Every Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and flavorful one skillet dish featuring spicy sausage and honey BBQ sauce mixed with pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 lb spicy sausage
- 1 cup honey BBQ sauce
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté until soft.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Remove the casing from the sausage and add to the skillet. Cook until browned.
- Add pasta, chicken broth, and honey BBQ sauce. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce for desired sweetness.
- Top with grated cheese if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: one skillet spicy honey bbq sausage pasta