Description
This One-Pot Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines smoky sausage, rotini pasta, and a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce. Made in a single pot for easy cleanup, it melds comforting cheddar cheese and savory chicken broth into a perfectly balanced meal that’s great for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup honey BBQ sauce
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup diced onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté onions: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes, to develop their sweetness and soften their texture.
- Cook sausage: Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and slightly crispy to enhance the smoky flavor.
- Season: Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the sausage and onions, stirring well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Add broth and pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Then add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
- Add cream and BBQ sauce: Lower the heat to low, and stir in the heavy cream and honey BBQ sauce until the sauce is smooth and well combined with the pasta and sausage.
- Incorporate cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until it melts completely to create a creamy, rich sauce coating the pasta.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Using smoked sausage adds a deep, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce.
- Be careful when seasoning since the sausage and cheese can add saltiness; taste and adjust accordingly.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Keywords: honey BBQ sausage pasta, one-pot pasta recipe, smoked sausage pasta, creamy BBQ pasta, easy weeknight dinner