One Skillet Spicy Honey Bbq Sausage Pasta

Looking for a flavorful meal that’s easy to make and packed with taste? One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta is the perfect choice!

The combination of juicy sausage, sweet honey BBQ sauce, and a touch of heat makes this dish a one-pan wonder that’s both hearty and exciting.

Picture savoring tender sausage mixed with creamy pasta and a bold, spicy BBQ sauce that ties everything together in the most delicious way.

Let’s get started on this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and Comforting: The spicy sausage and sweet BBQ blend is cozy, rich, and flavorful.
• One Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes, less mess, all the taste.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters love the balance of sweet, smoky, and cheesy.
• Great for Busy Nights: Comes together fast with easy ingredients.
• Customizable: Add veggies or swap pasta types—this recipe plays nice with swaps.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: About 35 minutes

Servings: This recipe serves 4–6 people as a main meal.

Difficulty: Very easy — even beginner cooks can handle this.

Required Kitchen Tools

You only need a few things to make this one-skillet pasta work smoothly:

• Large skillet (preferably 12-inch, deep sides)
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater (if using fresh mozzarella or Parmesan)

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need (exact amounts are listed in the recipe card at the end):

Main Ingredients

• Pasta – short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works best
• Spicy Italian sausage – no casings, crumbled
• Olive oil – for sautéing
• Onion – adds a sweet, savory base
• Garlic – gives a rich, aromatic flavor
• Diced tomatoes – for a tangy sauce base
• Chicken broth – adds moisture and depth
• Honey BBQ sauce – for sweetness and smoky flavor
• Red pepper flakes – adjust to your heat preference
• Salt and pepper – to season
• Shredded mozzarella – for that gooey, cheesy finish

Garnish

• Chopped fresh parsley – for a fresh pop of green

Optional Add-ins

• Bell peppers – sweet and colorful
• Mushrooms – earthy, tender texture
• Jalapeños – extra heat, if you’re into that
• Parmesan cheese – for added sharpness and a nutty top

Variations for This Recipe

• Swap the Sausage: Try andouille, chorizo, or even plant-based sausage for variety.
• Use a Different Pasta: Elbows, shells, or even whole wheat noodles work fine.
• Make It Creamier: Add a splash of heavy cream toward the end.
• Less Spicy: Skip the red pepper flakes and use mild sausage.
• More Veggies: Stir in spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.

How to Make One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Sausage and Aromatics

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once it’s warm, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned—about 5–7 minutes.

Next, stir in the diced onion. Let it soften for 2–3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

2. Build the Sauce

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Add chicken broth, honey BBQ sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed.

Now add your dry pasta straight into the skillet. Stir to coat the pasta in the sauce.

3. Simmer and Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring every few minutes to keep the pasta from sticking.

If the sauce looks too thick as the pasta cooks, add a splash of extra broth or water. The pasta should be tender but not mushy.

4. Add Cheese and Finish

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and creamy.

Turn off the heat. Let it sit uncovered for a couple of minutes so the sauce thickens slightly.

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, grated Parmesan on top before serving.

Serving and Decoration

This pasta is rich and cheesy, so I like to keep it simple when serving.

• Plating: Spoon the pasta into shallow bowls or onto plates. Use a big ladle so you get lots of sausage and sauce in each serving.
• Garnish: Add a light sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. If you like more cheese, grate some Parmesan over the top while it’s still warm.
• Pair it With: A simple green salad or roasted veggies works great alongside. Garlic bread is also a solid choice if you want something hearty.

This dish doesn’t need much else—it’s filling, flavorful, and satisfying all on its own.

Storing Leftovers

• In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool before refrigerating.
• Reheat Gently: Add a splash of water or broth and reheat in a skillet or microwave. Stir often so it doesn’t dry out or stick.
• Freezer Option: You can freeze this pasta in portions. Let it cool fully, then store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Stir Often While Simmering: This keeps the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
• Taste As You Go: Some BBQ sauces are sweeter or smokier—adjust the seasoning to your liking.
• Use Fresh Cheese if Possible: Pre-shredded cheese can be waxy. Freshly shredded melts better and tastes richer.
• Add Veggies Early: If using bell peppers or mushrooms, add them right after the onions so they cook down well.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~520 kcal
Protein	22 g
Fat	26 g
Carbohydrates	48 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	9 g
Sodium	870 mg
Saturated Fat	9 g
Cholesterol	60 mg

Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes. Try sweet Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or plant-based options.

What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?
Short, sturdy shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best—they hold the sauce and sausage well.

Is it very spicy?
It has a mild kick. You can reduce or skip the red pepper flakes if you want it less spicy.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best fresh. If making ahead, reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.

Conclusion

This One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta is a go-to recipe when you want something bold, filling, and fast. It’s got everything you want in one dish—protein, pasta, sauce, and cheese—all made in one pan. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, this one brings the comfort without the fuss.