One‑Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta

quick and satisfying one-pan meal, this One‑Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta is packed with bold flavors. Smoky sausage, sweet and spicy honey BBQ sauce, and tender pasta come together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish checks all the boxes—flavorful, simple, and quick. Cooking everything in one skillet saves time and cleanup, while the combination of sweet, smoky, and spicy elements keeps every bite interesting. It’s easily customizable and family-friendly, perfect for busy evenings when you still want a hearty, home-cooked meal.

ingredients

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

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, fusilli, or a similar shape)

• 1 lb sausage (Italian, smoked, or chicken), sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup honey

• ¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium optional)

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the sausage
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage slices and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and slightly crisp. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

3. Make the sauce
   In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Pour into the skillet and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Combine with pasta
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Let cook for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors can meld.

5. Serve
   Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Different proteins: Try chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of sausage.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce.

• Sweetener options: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.

• Extra veggies: Add spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for more nutrients.

• Cheesy touch: Top with shredded cheese or Parmesan for extra richness.

• Low-sodium version: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and less added salt.

storage/reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, or microwave until heated through.

• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with added liquid to maintain texture.

FAQs

What kind of sausage works best?

Italian, smoked, or chicken sausage all work well. Choose based on your preferred flavor and spice level.

Can I make it less spicy?

Yes, simply omit or reduce the red pepper flakes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but it can be made gluten-free with appropriate pasta and tamari.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe contains no dairy and is suitable for dairy-free diets.

How long does it keep in the fridge?

It keeps well for up to 4 days in a sealed container.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat with a bit of water or broth.

What kind of pasta should I use?

Pasta shapes with ridges or twists like penne or rotini help the sauce cling better.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat before serving.

What vegetables can I add?

Great additions include bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup, brown sugar, or agave nectar are good alternatives.

Conclusion

This One‑Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta recipe is your go-to for a fast, flavorful, and fuss-free dinner. With just one pan and a few pantry staples, you can create a hearty meal that’s sure to please. Versatile and easy to adapt, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.