Creamy BBQ Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet

Why Creamy BBQ Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Is a Family Favorite

A taste of home in Tuscany

Hi! I’m Sofia Russo, a 42-year-old American living in the Tuscan hills. This creamy BBQ honey garlic sausage pasta is a dish that encapsulates my journey from a novice cook to a passionate Italian food lover. I remember the first time I made a similar pasta on my terrace, inspired by a cozy meal I had at a local trattoria.

The warmth of the pasta, the smoky flavor of the sausage, and the sweet touch of honey transported me right back to that little village in Italy. This recipe is now a family favorite that combines nostalgia with delicious simplicity.

The flavor explosion of BBQ and garlic

You might wonder how BBQ sauce finds its way into Italian-inspired dishes. This creamy pasta brings together the richness of heavy cream, the smokiness of sausage, and the sweetness of honey, creating a deliciously unique flavor profile.

The garlic adds an aromatic punch that elevates the dish to a new level of comfort food. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe on rotation as a staple in your kitchen.

How to Make Creamy BBQ Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb sausage (such as smoked or Italian), sliced
• 12 oz pasta (like penne or fusilli)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parsley or green onions (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Olive Oil
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the Sausage
   Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Garlic
   Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Combine Liquids
   Add chicken broth, heavy cream, BBQ sauce, and honey to the skillet.
5. Add Uncooked Pasta
   Bring to a simmer, then add uncooked pasta. Stir well and cover the skillet.
6. Cook the Pasta
   Cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
7. Adjust Consistency
   If the mixture thickens too much, add a bit more chicken broth.
8. Mix in Cheese and Seasoning
   Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Combine Until Creamy
   Mix until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
10. Serve Warm
    Serve warm, garnished with parsley or green onions if desired.

Serving Creamy BBQ Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta with Style

What to Serve with This Creamy BBQ Pasta

This creamy BBQ honey garlic sausage pasta pairs perfectly with crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal experience. The rich, flavorful pasta benefits from a lighter side that balances its creamy texture. Consider pairing it with a chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or a sparkling water, to enhance the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the dish.

Delicious Variations Worth Trying

Feel free to switch up the proteins! Chicken or turkey sausage can lighten the dish while keeping it hearty and satisfying. You could also incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added color and nutrition. If you’re craving a kick, a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile even further. Have fun experimenting with different ingredients to make this creamy BBQ honey garlic sausage pasta your own!

How to Store and Reheat Creamy BBQ Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta

Best way to store and keep flavor

Store any leftovers of your creamy BBQ honey garlic sausage pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta in individual portions for up to 2 months.

Be sure to use freezer-safe containers, as this will help maintain the dish’s flavor and texture over time. When storing, try to separate any sauce from the pasta if possible, as this can help preserve the creamy consistency.

How to reheat without drying it out

To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat. You can add a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy and restore its original consistency. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

Alternatively, if you prefer using the microwave, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently to avoid uneven cooking. Adding a bit of chicken broth or heavy cream before reheating can help maintain that luscious, creamy texture, ensuring a delightful experience even on the second serving!

FAQs about Creamy BBQ Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta

Q1: Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sausages like chicken, turkey, or even spicy sausage for an extra kick. Each type will bring its unique flavor to the dish.

Q2: Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, if you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. Just keep in mind that this may slightly change the flavor and creaminess of the sauce.

Q3: Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or similar meat substitutes. You can also add more vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini, for added texture and flavor.

Q4: How spicy is this dish?

The dish is mildly spiced, thanks to the optional red pepper flakes. If you prefer it spicier, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add more cayenne pepper as desired.

Q5: How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sausage and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta, combine it with the sauce, and finish with the cheese.

Conclusion

Creamy BBQ honey garlic sausage pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor that will surely become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of savory sausage, sweet honey, and the rich cream creates a unique dish that will satisfy both adults and kids alike.

Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. So, dust off your skillet and bring a taste of comfort to your dining table. Don’t forget to share your variations and experiences with this delightful dish! Enjoy!