Dinner

One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta – Flavor-Packed & Easy Recipe

Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that comes together in one pan? This One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution—bold, sweet, smoky, and just the right amount of spicy. Combining juicy sausage, al dente pasta, and a rich honey BBQ sauce, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy families or anyone who loves a satisfying, fuss-free meal, this recipe balances smoky BBQ flavors with a touch of heat and sweetness for a truly addictive dish.

What sets this pasta apart is its effortless one-pan preparation—no need to boil pasta separately! The noodles cook right in the skillet, soaking up all the delicious flavors from the sausage, spices, and sauce. The spicy honey BBQ glaze caramelizes slightly as it simmers, coating every bite in a sticky, finger-licking-good sauce. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or prefer milder flavors (adjustable to taste!), this dish is endlessly customizable with your favorite sausage, pasta shapes, or extra veggies.

What Makes One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta Special?

This recipe is a game-changer for several reasons:

  • One-pan wonder – Cook everything in a single skillet for maximum flavor and minimal dishes.
  • Sweet, smoky & spicy – The honey BBQ sauce with a kick of red pepper flakes creates an irresistible glaze.
  • Versatile protein – Use Italian sausage, smoked sausage, or even chicken for variation.
  • Meal prep friendly – Reheats beautifully for lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

Unlike traditional pasta dishes that require multiple pots, this all-in-one method ensures the pasta absorbs the sauce’s richness while staying perfectly tender. The caramelized edges of the sausage add depth, while the honey balances the heat for a well-rounded flavor profile. It’s a crowd-pleaser that looks as impressive as it tastes—ideal for both casual dinners and entertaining.

One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta – Flavor-Packed & Easy Recipe
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One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta – Flavor-Packed & Easy Recipe

Recipe by Jamie Erin
Servings

5

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Calories

550

kcal

Ingredients for One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta

  • 12 oz smoked sausage (or Italian sausage), sliced

  • 12 oz penne pasta (or any short pasta)

  • 3 cups chicken broth

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce

  • 2 tbsp honey

  • 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to spice preference)

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 red bell pepper, diced

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Directions for One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta

  • Brown the Sausage
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.
  • Sauté Aromatics
    In the same skillet, add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Sprinkle in smoked paprika and red pepper flakes for extra depth.
  • Deglaze & Add Liquids
    Pour in chicken broth, BBQ sauce, honey, and sriracha. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the pan (this adds flavor!). Bring to a gentle boil.
  • Cook the Pasta
    Add uncooked pasta and stir to submerge. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.
  •  Finish & Garnish
    Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Let cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving.

What to Serve with Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta

Pair this dish with:

  • Garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping
  • Crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
  • Grilled vegetables like zucchini or asparagus
  • Cooling sides like coleslaw or cucumber salad

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 65g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 22g

Final Thoughts

This One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta is the perfect blend of convenience and bold flavors. With its caramelized sausage, tender pasta, and sticky-sweet sauce, it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion. The best part? One pan, no fuss, and endless customization options. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers every time.

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