One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta

If you love weeknight dinners that come together in a flash and deliver a flavor punch, this One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta is your new secret weapon. It’s the kind of dish that turns everyday pantry staples into something spectacular—smoky sausage mingles with sticky honey, tangy barbecue sauce, and a teasing kick of red pepper flakes, all wrapped around perfectly al dente penne. With just one skillet to wash, it’s a lifesaver on busy evenings when you crave comfort but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I first tested this recipe on a rainy Thursday when my calendar was jam-packed; within 30 minutes, I had a piping-hot dinner on the table that felt like a gourmet treat. My household went wild for it, and I couldn’t blame them—the sweet-heat combination is utterly irresistible.

Beyond the mouthwatering flavors, this recipe shines for its simplicity and versatility. Classified as a beginner-friendly dish, it requires only a handful of basic ingredients and minimal prep work: chop, sauté, stir, and simmer. In about 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time (plus a five-minute rest), you’ll have a complete meal that hits all the right notes—spicy, sweet, smoky, and savory. Clocking in at roughly 550 calories per serving, it’s a balanced option whether you’re meal-planning for the week or cooking just for yourself. You can easily ramp up the heat with extra hot sauce, add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for more color and nutrition, or even stir in a splash of heavy cream for extra richness. Ready to savor bold, saucy goodness without mountains of dishes? Let’s dive into what makes this skillet sensation so effortlessly delicious.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN ONE-SKILLET SPICY HONEY BBQ SAUSAGE & PASTA

Before we fire up the stove, it helps to understand why each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and delivering that blissful, saucy texture. These simple components come together to create a perfectly balanced dish that’s smoky, sweet, spicy, and utterly satisfying—all in a single pan.

• Smoked sausage

Brings a deep, smoky backbone and a pleasing snap when you bite into it. Slicing it into half-moons maximizes the surface area for even browning and ensures every forkful is packed with savory goodness.

• Olive oil

Provides the ideal medium for sautéing, helping the sausage and vegetables to develop golden edges without sticking to the pan.

• Onion

Adds a natural sweetness and aromatic depth as it softens, creating the flavor foundation for the entire dish.

• Garlic

Infuses a pungent, savory kick that takes that onion base up a notch—just be careful not to let it burn.

• Red bell pepper

Contributes vibrant color, crunch, and a gentle sweetness that balances the heat.

• Red pepper flakes

Deliver adjustable heat; add more for a spicier bite or dial it back for a milder twist.

• Barbecue sauce

Unites smoky, tangy, and sweet notes, coating the sausage and pasta in a luscious glaze.

• Honey

Rounds out the acidity of the BBQ sauce with a smooth sweetness, creating that signature sticky consistency.

• Hot sauce (optional)

Intensifies the fiery kick for anyone who loves extra heat.

• Chicken broth

Serves as the cooking liquid for the pasta, infusing it with savory flavor and ensuring a silky sauce when reduced.

• Penne pasta

Perfect for capturing every drop of sauce in its hollow tubes, offering a delightful chew.

• Salt and pepper

Essential seasonings for balancing and enhancing the overall taste.

• Shredded cheddar cheese

Melts into gooey, creamy ribbons that pull everything together with a luscious finish.

• Fresh parsley

Cuts through the richness with a refreshing, herbaceous touch and a pop of color.

HOW TO MAKE ONE-SKILLET SPICY HONEY BBQ SAUSAGE & PASTA

Now that our ingredients are prepped and lined up, it’s time to transform them into a mouthwatering meal. This streamlined process keeps everything in one pan, from browning the sausage to melting the cheese, ensuring each step builds on the last for maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Let’s get cooking:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the sliced sausage, spreading the pieces in a single layer. Cook without stirring too often until each side is deeply browned, about 5–7 minutes.

2. Push the sausage to one side of the pan and add the chopped onion, allowing it to sweat and become translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until the garlic releases its fragrant oil.

3. Toss the diced bell pepper and red pepper flakes into the skillet, stirring occasionally as the pepper softens and absorbs the savory drippings, about 2–3 minutes.

4. Pour in the barbecue sauce, drizzle in the honey, and add the hot sauce if you want an extra kick. Mix well to coat every piece of sausage and vegetable in that sticky, flavorful sauce.

5. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift any browned bits from the bottom. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.

6. Add the pasta, pushing it under the surface so it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and prevent sticking, until it’s tender but still has a slight bite.

7. Once the pasta is al dente, taste and season with salt and pepper as needed, enhancing the dish’s overall balance.

8. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the hot pasta mixture. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 1–2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey blanket.

9. Finish by scattering the chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness before serving straight from the pan.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR ONE-SKILLET SPICY HONEY BBQ SAUSAGE & PASTA

When you’re ready to plate up this hearty skillet sensation, consider these serving ideas to elevate the experience even further. From simple salads to toasted bread, these accompaniments will complement the sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors while adding texture and balance to your meal.

• Crisp Green Salad

Toss fresh mixed greens with a light vinaigrette—a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. The tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, saucy pasta.

• Garlic Bread

Slice a baguette, brush each piece generously with garlic butter (butter mixed with minced garlic and a sprinkle of parsley), then toast under the broiler until golden. The crispy exterior and garlicky aroma make it perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce.

• Creamy Coleslaw

Whip up a quick slaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a mayo-based dressing seasoned with apple cider vinegar and a touch of sugar. This cool, crunchy side cuts through the spice and adds a garden-fresh vibe.

• Chilled Beverages

Pair with an ice-cold lemonade, sweet tea, or a frosty lager. The cool drink helps balance the heat and sweetness of the dish, keeping your palate happy from the first bite to the last.

HOW TO STORE ONE-SKILLET SPICY HONEY BBQ SAUSAGE & PASTA

This one-skillet wonder makes fantastic leftovers, and with the right storage methods, you can maintain its vibrant flavors and perfect texture for days. Whether you’re meal-prepping for busy weekdays or just want to savor every last bite, follow these storage tips to keep your Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta tasting fresh.

• Refrigerate in Airtight Containers

Once the pasta has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keeping the container tightly sealed prevents odors from other foods from mingling and helps the sauce retain its moisture.

• Portion and Freeze

For longer storage, divide the cooled pasta into individual freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture.

• Reheat Gently

When you’re ready to eat, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry. Stir frequently to ensure even warming and to help the sauce loosen and coat the pasta again.

• Refresh the Cheese

If you notice the cheese loses its creaminess after refrigeration, simply sprinkle a little fresh shredded cheddar on top during reheating. Cover for a minute to melt and revive that gooey, indulgent finish.

CONCLUSION

What started as a simple idea for a busy weeknight dinner has blossomed into a full-flavored, crowd-pleasing staple you’ll return to time and again. This One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta effortlessly combines the smoky richness of sausage, the sweet warmth of honey, and the tangy punch of barbecue sauce with tender pasta, all in one pan. From its beginner-friendly steps to the minimal cleanup, it’s designed for home cooks who crave maximum flavor without fuss. You’ve got the key ingredients, detailed instructions, serving suggestions, and storage tips right at your fingertips—everything you need to make this dish a regular in your dinner rotation.

Feel free to print this article and save it in your recipe box; it’s perfect for quick reference whenever that craving for sticky, spicy-sweet goodness strikes. Below, you’ll find an FAQ section to tackle any burning questions that might pop up as you cook. If you try this recipe—or if you have tweaks, tips, or stories of your own—I’d love to hear from you. Drop a comment, ask questions, or share feedback so we can all enjoy this skillet sensation together. Your kitchen adventures make this community vibrant, and I can’t wait to see how you make this hearty pasta your own!

Print Recipe

One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta

Author: Emily Roberts Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 35 mins

Calories: 550

Description

This enticing skillet meal combines smoky sausage, sweet honey, and zingy BBQ sauce with perfectly cooked pasta, creating a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into half-moons

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your heat preference)

• 1 cup barbecue sauce

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 8 oz penne pasta (or your preferred shape)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• ¹⁄₂ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the diced bell pepper and red pepper flakes to the skillet, stirring occasionally until the pepper softens, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the barbecue sauce, honey, and hot sauce (if using). Mix well to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Add the pasta to the skillet, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Once the pasta is cooked through, season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet to allow the cheese to melt, about 1-2 minutes.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Note

• Smoked sausage adds a rich, smoky flavor; however, any cooked sausage can work in this recipe.
• Adjust the red pepper flakes and hot sauce for more or less spiciness according to your preference.
• If you like a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream before serving.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• This one-skillet recipe is perfect for minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor.

Keywords: pasta, sausage, BBQ, one-skillet, dinner, spicy