Name: Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your short pasta of choice); 1 lb (450 g) sausage, sliced (Italian sausage or smoked sausage recommended); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey; 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce (low sodium works best); 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat); 1 tablespoon butter; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese, for optional serving

Jump to Recipe

Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of sausage with a sweet and savory sauce, all tossed with al dente pasta—all in just one pan. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for a family gathering, this recipe hits the mark. I was thrilled when I first tried this dish; the combination of honey and garlic creates a beautifully sticky sauce that clings to the pasta and makes every bite memorable. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone to the table.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Imagine a dish that’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and promises to be a hit with everyone at the table. That’s exactly what Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet offers. Packed with flavor and made from simple ingredients, this one-pan wonder is ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you need a satisfying meal. You’ll adore how the sweet honey balances with the savory sausage and the umami of soy sauce. Plus, it requires minimal cleanup—perfect for the time-starved cook.

"This pasta skillet is a weeknight game-changer! My family loved every bite, and I loved how quick and easy it was to make." – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Cooking this Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet is a breeze! With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Start by boiling your pasta; while that’s happening, you’ll sauté the sausage and whip up that irresistible sticky sauce. Once everything is combined, you’ll get to indulge in a meal bursting with flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Here’s how it’s done.

Gather Your Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your short pasta of choice)
1 lb (450 g) sausage, sliced (Italian sausage or smoked sausage recommended)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup (60 ml) honey
1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce (low sodium works best)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for optional serving

Feel free to swap out the sausage or adjust the spice level to match your family’s preferences!

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Step-by-Step Directions

Cook the Pasta: Start cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Remember to salt the water well. Drain when al dente, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage slices and brown them for about 5-7 minutes until crispy. Once done, set them aside on a plate.
Make the Sticky Honey Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar, stirring well. Then, add the chicken broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. For a kick, add red pepper flakes if desired.
Combine Ingredients: Return the sausages to the skillet, allowing them to heat through in the sauce for about 3-4 minutes. Now, toss in your cooked pasta. Mix well, adding reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening. Stir in butter for an extra layer of richness.
Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Turn off the heat and sprinkle with parsley for freshness. If desired, add grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Best Way to Serve

This dish can be served as a standalone meal, but you could add some garlic bread or a fresh side salad for extra flair. If you want to elevate your dining experience, pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea to balance the flavors.

Storage Tips

Storing leftovers from your Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet is easy! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be safely kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to retain its sauciness. If you want to freeze it, ensure it’s properly sealed in a freezer-safe container; it’ll last for up to 2 months, just remember to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Expert Advice

Here are some chef tips to make your cooking experience even smoother:

Use High-Quality Sausage: The flavor of your dish heavily relies on the quality of sausage you choose. Opt for fresh or artisanal varieties if possible.
Mind Your Garlic: Avoid burning the garlic as it can turn your dish bitter. Keep a close eye on it; it cooks quickly!
Pasta Water Magic: Don’t skip reserving pasta water! It’s a fantastic way to adjust sauce consistency—this starchy water helps the sauce cling better to your pasta.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few ideas:

Vegetable Boost: Add in cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Different Sauces: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile.
Alternative Proteins: Swap the sausage for grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different take.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy weeknights!

Can I substitute the honey?
Yes! Maple syrup or agave nectar makes a great alternative for a different flavor.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

Feel free to dive into this recipe and embrace the sticky goodness that will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household!