Introduction
Tired of weeknight dinner struggles? This One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta recipe is your new best friend! We’re taking simple, everyday ingredients and transforming them into a flavour explosion that the whole family will adore. Get ready for a comforting, delicious meal that’s as easy as it is satisfying.
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly easy, requiring minimal cleanup (yay, one skillet!), and delivers a fantastic balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. The honey BBQ sauce adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the spicy sausage, while the pasta soaks up all the delicious juices. It’s a complete meal in one pan – perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients
- 🧅 1 large onion, chopped
- 🌶️ 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- sausages 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your choice!), casings removed
- 🍝 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 🍯 1/2 cup honey
- 🍅 1/2 cup ketchup
- 🌶️ 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 🌶️ 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 🌿 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
- 🧀 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
2️⃣ Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, ketchup, BBQ sauce, chili powder, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4️⃣ Pour the honey BBQ sauce mixture into the skillet with the onions and peppers. Bring to a simmer.
5️⃣ Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet along with the pasta and 2 cups of water (or broth for extra flavor!). Stir to combine.
6️⃣ Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7️⃣ If desired, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese during the last minute of cooking.
8️⃣ Serve immediately and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, use Italian sausage with a blend of sweet and hot flavors.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook the sausage in batches if necessary.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water or broth.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Heat Control
Medium-high heat is used initially to brown the sausage and soften the vegetables. Lowering the heat to low for simmering ensures the pasta cooks evenly and the sauce thickens without burning. Always keep a close eye on your skillet to prevent sticking and burning.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe isn’t particularly crunchy, you can add a bit of textural contrast by topping with some toasted breadcrumbs or chopped fresh herbs before serving.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Prep your vegetables ahead of time to speed up the cooking process.
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika and a touch of liquid smoke.
- Add a splash of red wine vinegar for a tangy kick.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish isn’t typically gifted, but if you were to make it for a potluck, a large, disposable aluminum pan would be convenient for transport.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Jalapeño: Add 1-2 finely chopped jalapeños to the skillet with the onions and peppers for an extra kick.
🌟 Creamy Ranch: Stir in 1/2 cup of ranch dressing during the last few minutes of cooking for a creamy twist.
🌟 Mediterranean Twist: Substitute Italian sausage for chicken sausage and add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
🌟 Sweet & Savory: Increase the honey to 3/4 cup and add a handful of chopped fresh basil before serving.
Troubleshooting
- Pasta is sticking: Make sure you stir frequently and don’t overcrowd the skillet.
- Sauce is too thin: Simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the sauce.
- Sausage is dry: Don’t overcook the sausage. Remove it from the skillet once it’s browned.
FAQ
- Can I use different types of pasta? Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work well in this recipe.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the pasta just before serving.
- Can I freeze this recipe? It’s not recommended to freeze this recipe, as the pasta will become mushy upon thawing.
- What if I don’t have BBQ sauce? You can substitute with Worcestershire sauce or a smoky hot sauce.
Conclusion
This One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Give it a try and let us know what you think! Share your creations with us on social media using #AngelRecipes! Enjoy!