Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the sauce in my favorite cooking pot, a wave of nostalgia hit me—reminding me of summer cookouts and family dinners. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta, a dish that’s not just about feeding your hunger but also about creating memorable moments around the table. With its blend of smoky sausage, sweet honey BBQ sauce, and ooey-gooey cheddar cheese, this creamy pasta is perfect for busy weeknights, providing the warmth of comfort food without the hassle of cleanup. Plus, it’s a quick meal that allows you to savor every bite without the stress of a lengthy cooking process. Ready to dive into this delicious fusion of Southern BBQ vibes and Italian flair? Let’s get cooking! Why is One-Pot Cooking a Game-Changer? Simplicity: This One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it ideal for weeknight meals. Creamy Indulgence: The rich combination of heavy cream and cheddar cheese creates a comforting and creamy dish that’s incredibly satisfying. Flavor Fusion: Blending BBQ sweetness with savory sausage elevates this pasta to new heights, creating unique flavor experiences with every bite. Easy Clean-Up: With just one pot to wash, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy your meal, making it parents’ or busy professionals’ dream. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to switch up the sausage or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition without compromising flavor. If you’re looking for other quick meals, check out my Pan Bold Honey or Fryer Hot Honey recipes! Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta Dish Smoked Sausage – Offers a rich, smoky flavor that deepens the taste of the One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta. Pasta (Penne or Rotini) – Acts as the perfect base, absorbing the delicious sauce; gluten-free alternatives work beautifully here. Chicken Broth – Adds a savory depth to the dish; opt for low sodium if you’re watching your salt intake. Heavy Cream – Creates the creamy texture that makes this dish so indulgent; coconut milk is a great dairy-free substitute. Honey BBQ Sauce – Provides a delightful sweetness with tang; feel free to use a homemade version for extra flair. Cheddar Cheese – Ensures gooey creaminess; freshly shredded cheese melts beautifully and offers a sharper flavor. Diced Onions – Infuse aromatic flavor into the dish; shallots or green onions can be used for a milder taste. Olive Oil – Necessary for sautéing to perfection; vegetable oil can be used if preferred. Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile; fresh garlic can bring a bolder taste if you desire. Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors to perfection. Chopped Parsley – An optional garnish that adds a fresh touch and vibrant color to your plate. This One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta will have you and your loved ones gathering around the table in no time! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta Step 1: Cook Sausage and Onion In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 14 ounces of sliced smoked sausage and 1 diced onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the sausage is nicely browned and the onions are softened, releasing wonderful aromas. This step forms the flavorful base for your One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta. Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of honey BBQ sauce, stirring to combine. Add 12 ounces of uncooked penne or rotini pasta, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked and the sauce thickens beautifully. Step 3: Finish with Cheese Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 2 cups of freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and blends into the creamy sauce, creating a rich and indulgent texture. This step transforms your One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta into a gooey comfort dish that’s simply irresistible. Step 4: Serve Ladle the creamy pasta into bowls and serve warm. If desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and a pop of color. Your One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta is now ready to delight your family; enjoy the cozy flavors and the ease of cleanup! Make Ahead Options These One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the smoked sausage, diced onions, and liquids (chicken broth, heavy cream, and honey BBQ sauce) up to 24 hours in advance by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Simply cook the sausage and onions in the pot, add the prepped liquids and uncooked pasta when you’re ready to serve, and simmer until the pasta is cooked. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort, ensuring your weeknight dinners are both satisfying and time-saving! Storage Tips for One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta Fridge: Store any leftover One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain creaminess. Room Temperature: It’s best to consume this dish within 2 hours of cooking if left out. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so refrigerate as soon as possible. Freezer: Avoid freezing as cream-based sauces may separate, altering the dish’s texture. Instead, keep it fresh in the fridge and enjoy within a few days. Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a little extra broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency. One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta Variations Feel free to get creative with this dish by trying out some tasty twists that will suit your family’s taste buds! Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use a spicy BBQ sauce to bring a delightful heat to the dish. This easy twist will elevate the flavor profile, satisfying those who enjoy a little spice in their meal! Veggie Boost: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach to enhance the nutritional value and add color. Not only will this make the dish more vibrant, but it also allows you to sneak in more greens for a balanced plate. Different Cheeses: Substitute cheddar cheese with pepper jack or smoked gouda for a smoky twist and an extra flavor boost. The melting qualities of these cheeses will still keep that creamy consistency while adding exciting new layers to your pasta. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to easily accommodate those with dietary restrictions without missing out on the rich flavors. It’s a simple swap that keeps everyone at the table happy! Savory Substitutions: Swap smoked sausage for chicken sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian alternative. This change in protein will still bring wonderful flavor while catering to various dietary needs. Heavy Cream Alternative: Try using coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option that doesn’t skimp on creaminess. This swap still delivers that beloved rich texture without lactose! For more quick and flavorful options, don’t miss out on my Pan Bold Honey or Fryer Hot Honey recipes that can also delight your taste buds. Enjoy crafting your ideal One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta! What to Serve with One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta Elevate your dining experience with delectable side dishes that beautifully complement the rich flavors of this creamy masterpiece. Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery texture of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, enhancing every bite. It’s the classic pairing you can’t resist! Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette contrasts the richness of the pasta, adding crunch and brightness to your meal. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers bring a touch of sweetness and color while boosting nutritional value without overpowering the centerpiece dish. Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based slaw offers a crisp, tangy balance to the smoky sausage and sweet BBQ sauce, providing a delightful crunch with each forkful. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, sweet corn adds a summer-like sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the BBQ flavor, creating a delightful harmony on your plate. Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing and bubbly, this citrusy drink lightens up the meal while complementing the honey BBQ sauce’s sweetness, ensuring everyone stays cool and hydrated. For dessert, consider serving a light fruit salad or homemade brownies to round out the meal, offering a sweet end to the comforting, savory experience! Expert Tips for One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta Uniform Slicing: Ensure even cooking by slicing the sausage and dicing the onions uniformly for consistent flavor throughout the One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta. Cheese Matters: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for improved melting and creaminess; pre-packaged shredded cheese often includes anti-caking agents that can alter texture. Prep Ahead: Pre-measure your liquids and seasonings. Having everything ready before you start will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Pasta Choices: Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes. Rigatoni or farfalle work equally well and can absorb flavors beautifully. Avoid Freezing: Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well. Aim to consume leftovers within a few days to prevent separation when reheating. One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right sausage for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for smoked sausage for that rich flavor, but feel free to swap it with smoked turkey or even plant-based alternatives. Just make sure whatever you choose has good marbling; this will keep it juicy during cooking. How should I store any leftovers? Very! Keep your leftover One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to bring back that creamy texture. Can I freeze One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta? Unfortunately, I wouldn’t recommend it. Cream-based sauces tend to separate when thawed, which could ruin the delightful texture of your dish. Instead, try to enjoy it fresh or in the fridge within a few days. What if my pasta is undercooked? No worries! If you find your pasta isn’t quite done after the initial simmer, simply add a bit more chicken broth and let it cook on low heat for a few additional minutes. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking, and always taste to check for doneness. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Yes! If you’re mindful of dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free pasta to cater to those with gluten sensitivities. Additionally, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option. If you’re cooking for pets, this dish is not suitable for them due to the onion content. How do I make my dish spicier? The more the merrier! Feel free to add red pepper flakes or use a spicy BBQ sauce to kick up the heat to your liking. You can also toss in diced jalapeños or crushed chipotle peppers for an added punch of flavor! One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta for Cozy Nights This One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta is a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights, blending smoky sausage with sweet honey BBQ sauce and cheesy goodness. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: Italian, SouthernCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta Dish14 ounces Smoked Sausage sliced12 ounces Pasta (Penne or Rotini) uncooked3 cups Chicken Broth low sodium optional1 cup Heavy Cream coconut milk for dairy-free1 cup Honey BBQ Sauce homemade for extra flair2 cups Cheddar Cheese freshly shredded1 medium Diced Onion shallots or green onions optional2 tablespoons Olive Oil vegetable oil optional1 teaspoon Garlic Powder fresh garlic for bolder flavorto taste Saltto taste Pepperto taste Chopped Parsley optional garnish Equipment Large pot Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 14 ounces of sliced smoked sausage and 1 diced onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the sausage is nicely browned and the onions are softened.Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of honey BBQ sauce, stirring to combine. Add 12 ounces of uncooked penne or rotini pasta, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 2 cups of freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and blends into the creamy sauce.Ladle the creamy pasta into bowls and serve warm. If desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure uniform slicing of sausage and onions for even cooking. Use freshly shredded cheese for best results. Avoid freezing creamy sauces. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
