Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweet and savory honey garlic sauce coats the sausage and pasta, creating a sticky, flavorful experience in every bite. It's quick to prepare, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings. The one-pan cooking method ensures minimal cleanup, and the recipe is versatile, allowing for substitutions to suit dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 lb smoked sausage (Andouille, kielbasa, or your preferred variety), sliced into ½-inch rounds

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ⅓ cup honey

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoon water (to thicken the sauce)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage in a single layer and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

3. Cook the Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Add the pasta and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

4. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the skillet and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

5. Combine and Serve: Return the browned sausage to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.

• Spicy Lovers: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

• Cheesy Option: Stir in shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese just before serving for a creamy, cheesy twist.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce to accommodate dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use any sausage you prefer, such as chicken, turkey, or vegetarian options.

2. Is the red pepper flakes optional?

Yes, red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted if you prefer a milder dish.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sausage and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water.

6. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile.

7. Is this dish spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on the amount of red pepper flakes you use. Adjust to your taste preference.

8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli to enhance the dish's nutritional value and flavor.

9. Can I use a non-dairy cream alternative?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

10. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture to make it spicier.

Conclusion

The Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet is a flavorful and satisfying dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. Its sweet, savory, and slightly spicy sauce complements the smoky sausage and tender pasta, creating a comforting meal that's sure to please. With its quick preparation and minimal cleanup, it's a go-to recipe for any home cook looking to impress with minimal effort.