Why Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Sausage Penne Is a Weeknight Favorite
A taste of Tuscan simplicity with a twist
Hi! I’m Sofia Russo, and let me tell you about my love for flavorful dishes that evoke memories of Italy while keeping things simple at home. I’ll never forget that sunny terrace in a small Italian village where I first tasted pasta so good it sent me on a culinary journey.
This Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Sausage Penne captures that same spirit but marries it with American comfort food. I fell in love with the concept of blending flavors—sweet honey, savory sausage, and smoky BBQ—into pasta that’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet special enough to impress guests.
The secret behind this comforting dish
What makes Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Sausage Penne so special is its effortless fusion of cultures. The rich, savory notes from the Italian sausage dance perfectly with the sticky sweetness of honey and the tangy kick of BBQ sauce. It’s a dish that tells a story with every bite.
While this may not be traditional Italian, it reflects my journey, showcasing an everlasting admiration for food that brings people together. Plus, it’s adaptable, letting you embrace fresh seasonal ingredients—something I truly cherish from my cooking experiences in Tuscany.
How to Make Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Sausage Penne
Ingredients you’ll need
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sliced)
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and BBQ sauce.
Step 4: Combine Sauce with Sausage
Pour the sauce over the cooked sausage in the skillet and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Mix in the Pasta
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions.
Serving Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Sausage Penne with Style
What to serve with this flavorful pasta
This dish is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it up with a crisp Caesar salad, some garlic bread, or even roasted veggies. The combination of flavors will elevate your dining experience, making each meal a celebration of home-cooked comfort.
Delicious variations worth trying
To switch things up, why not try adding some sautéed bell peppers or asparagus for extra veggies? You could also swap the Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. For a creamier twist, consider stirring in a little cream or crème fraîche just before serving, giving a rich and smooth finish to your pasta.
How to Store and Reheat Your Sausage Penne
Best way to store and keep flavor
To keep your Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Sausage Penne fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re hoping to savor this dish later, consider freezing it—I recommend placing it in portion-sized bags that are easy to defrost whenever you crave a quick meal.
How to reheat without drying it out
When it’s time to reheat, the stovetop is your best friend! Gently warm the pasta on medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent dryness. If you use the microwave, be sure to cover it and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even reheating without losing that delightful sticky texture.
Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Weeknights
If you’re looking to simplify your weeknight dinner routine, consider prepping some components of the Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Sausage Penne in advance. You can cook the sausage and prepare the sauce ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy the dish, simply cook the pasta and combine everything in a skillet for a speedy and delicious dinner!
FAQs About Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Sausage Penne
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage adds a fantastic flavor, you can easily substitute it with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage to suit your dietary preferences.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make this Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Sausage Penne gluten-free, simply use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure that your BBQ sauce and soy sauce are gluten-free as well.
How do I store the leftovers properly?
To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them in portion-sized bags if you want to save them for a later date.
Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or any other vegetables you enjoy. Just make sure to cook them until tender before mixing them into the pasta.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking for a kick, you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce, or stir in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce when combining everything in the skillet.
Conclusion
Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Sausage Penne is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and connection. This recipe allows you to experiment with textures and tastes while creating a comforting dish that speaks of shared experiences and warmth around the dinner table. Whether you’re serving it to family on a busy weeknight or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy every flavorful bite!
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