One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta

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Smoky, sweet, and a little bit fiery—this One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta is comfort food turned up a notch. With juicy, caramelized sausage medallions nestled among spirals of perfectly cooked rotini and all of it cloaked in a sticky, bold honey BBQ glaze, it’s a dinner that satisfies every craving in one hearty bite. The charred edges of the sausage add a smoky depth, while the tangy-sweet BBQ sauce punches through with a whisper of heat, making every forkful addictive.

Best of all, it’s made in just one pan. That means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. This recipe is a lifesaver for weeknights, perfect for when you want something filling without juggling multiple pots and pans. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just looking to meal prep something delicious for the week, this dish brings bold flavor with effortless simplicity.

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Ingredients for One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta

• 14 oz (400 g) smoked sausage, sliced into coins
• 8 oz (225 g) rotini or fusilli pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ cups water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley or shredded cheese for garnish

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Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and the sliced sausage coins. Let them sizzle undisturbed for a few minutes so they get that deep golden sear. Stir occasionally, cooking for about 5–7 minutes until the sausage is browned and slightly crisp around the edges.

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Step 2: Build the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the BBQ sauce, honey, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything to coat the sausage well in the sticky, spicy-sweet glaze. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor.

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Step 3: Add the Pasta & Liquid

Pour the dry rotini pasta right into the skillet. Then add water (or broth for richer flavor). Stir gently to combine, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil.

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Step 4: Simmer and Cook

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Continue cooking until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, coating everything beautifully.

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Step 5: Final Touches

Uncover the skillet, give it a good stir, and check the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or chili flakes if needed. Let it sit for a minute or two to allow the sauce to cling even more to the sausage and pasta.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Serve hot, straight from the skillet. For a fresh touch, sprinkle chopped parsley on top. If you’re feeling indulgent, a bit of shredded cheese melts perfectly into the warm sauce.

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Storage Instructions

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This dish will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second bursts until heated through, or warm it on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

If you want to freeze it, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, though note that the pasta may soften slightly upon reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: ~520 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Sugars: 14g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 920mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and will vary depending on sausage type and BBQ sauce used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sausage works best for this recipe?

Smoked sausage (beef, pork, or turkey) works perfectly because it’s pre-cooked and adds a rich, savory flavor. You can also use andouille for extra spice or kielbasa for a milder option.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Fusilli, penne, or even elbow macaroni are great alternatives. Just keep the cooking time roughly the same and adjust the liquid if needed.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a mild kick, thanks to the red pepper flakes and the BBQ sauce. You can tone it down or amp it up depending on your spice preference.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap the sausage with a plant-based sausage or grilled mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Is it okay to double the recipe?

Yes, just be sure to use a large enough skillet and adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure even pasta cooking.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

Use your favorite brand! A smoky or spicy BBQ sauce pairs best with the honey, but a sweet and tangy version works well too.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini are excellent additions. Add them in step 2 or 3 so they cook down nicely.

How can I make it creamier?

Add ¼ cup of heavy cream or a handful of shredded cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.

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