Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet

If you’re on the hunt for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with bold, sweet and savory flavors, look no further than the Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet. This one-pan wonder brings together the smokiness of sausage, the comfort of creamy pasta, and the irresistible tang of a sticky honey garlic glaze—all in under 30 minutes! Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or trying to impress guests with a deceptively simple dish, this skillet is the answer.

What makes this recipe truly special is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The smokiness of sausage pairs beautifully with a garlicky, sticky sauce laced with honey and soy. Cream and broth give the pasta richness and body, while a kick of red pepper flakes keeps your palate on its toes. Finished with a shower of Parmesan and fresh herbs, this dish has everything: umami, sweetness, spice, creaminess, and a hearty bite.

Let’s dive into how to bring this dish to life in your kitchen, with all the tips and variations you might need to customize it to your liking.

Ingredients

For the Sausage & Pasta:

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced (Andouille, kielbasa, or any preferred variety)

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

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (to thicken the sauce)

Garnish:

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

• Extra red pepper flakes, optional

Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced sausage in a single layer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is nicely browned and slightly crispy on the edges. This caramelization adds tremendous depth to the final dish. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce

While the sausage is cooking, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a medium-sized bowl. This will form the sticky, glossy glaze that brings the entire dish together. Set aside until you’re ready to combine it with the pasta.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In the same skillet you used to cook the sausage, add 2 cups of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir well, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet—these bits are packed with flavor. Add the pasta directly into the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced to a creamy consistency.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Give the reserved honey garlic sauce another stir, then pour it into the skillet with the cooked pasta. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Add this to the skillet and stir to combine. Simmer the mixture for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings beautifully to the pasta.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to make sure the sausage and pasta are well coated in the sticky sauce. Let it cook for another minute or two, just until everything is heated through and harmoniously blended.

Variation

This recipe is highly customizable. Here are a few creative spins you can try:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.

• Extra Veggies: Add broccoli florets, spinach, or snap peas during the pasta cooking stage.

• Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese right before serving for a cheesy upgrade.

• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you love heat.

• Noodle Swap: Use rice noodles or egg noodles instead of traditional pasta for an Asian-inspired twist.

COOKING Note

• When cooking the pasta in broth and cream, monitor the liquid levels closely. If it reduces too fast, you can add a splash of extra broth or water.

• Use a deep, wide skillet or sauté pan to allow room for everything to cook evenly and stir easily.

• Slicing the sausage on a bias (diagonally) gives more surface area for browning and a more elegant look.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish piping hot straight from the skillet, garnished with Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley or basil. Pair it with:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette

• A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

• Steamed or roasted vegetables on the side

It’s hearty enough to be the main course but also works as part of a larger spread for gatherings.

Tips

• Pre-slice the sausage and prep your ingredients ahead to streamline cooking.

• Use low-sodium broth and soy sauce to control the salt level.

• Stir the pasta occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.

• For an extra glossy finish, drizzle a tiny bit of honey just before serving.

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated)

• Calories: 620

• Protein: 23g

• Sodium: 920mg
  (Values can vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.)

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.

Can I freeze this dish?

While you can freeze it, the cream-based sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. If freezing, reheat slowly and stir in fresh cream to restore texture.

What kind of sausage works best?

Smoked sausages like kielbasa or Andouille work best due to their bold flavor and firm texture. Turkey or chicken sausage is also a great leaner option.

Is it spicy?

Only slightly—thanks to the red pepper flakes. You can omit them for a milder flavor or add more for heat lovers.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can get soft quickly.

Conclusion

The Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet is more than just a quick weeknight meal—it’s a full-on flavor experience packed into one pan. Sweet, savory, creamy, and smoky with just the right touch of spice, it hits all the right notes. Plus, with minimal cleanup and a fast cooking time, it’s as practical as it is delicious.

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, looking for a new meal prep favorite, or just craving something comforting and unique, this skillet delivers every single time. Once you try it, it might just become a permanent part of your dinner rotation. So grab that skillet, and let the magic happen—one sticky, garlicky, sausage-studded bite at a time.

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