Sweet, smoky, and packing just the right punch of heat—One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta is a weeknight dinner hero. This dish brings together savory seared sausage, tender rotini pasta, and a sticky-spicy honey BBQ glaze in a single pan, creating a flavorful, no-fuss meal with maximum comfort and minimal cleanup. The BBQ sauce caramelizes slightly as it cooks, coating every bite of pasta and sausage with irresistible flavor.

This hearty pasta dish is perfect for busy evenings when you want something satisfying without a lot of effort. The combination of spicy sausage and sweet-tangy sauce makes each bite bold and balanced, while the rotini pasta catches the sauce in every groove. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this one-skillet wonder is sure to become a regular in your rotation.

Ingredients for One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta

12 oz rotini pasta (or your choice of short pasta)
1 lb spicy smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup BBQ sauce (smoky or hickory style recommended)
3 tbsp honey
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & black pepper to taste
2½ cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
Optional: fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced spicy smoked sausage. Sear the slices until they’re nicely browned on both sides—this takes about 4–5 minutes. Browning enhances the sausage’s flavor and adds a nice texture to the dish.

Step 2: Season and Build Flavor

Lower the heat to medium. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. Stir everything together so the spices coat the sausage slices evenly and begin to toast slightly—about 30 seconds.

Step 3: Add the Sauce and Sweetness

Pour in the BBQ sauce and honey, stirring to combine. Let it bubble for about 1 minute to start melding the flavors. The mix should become sticky and glossy, coating the sausage.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Liquid

Add the uncooked rotini pasta directly into the skillet. Pour in 2½ cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth. Stir gently to combine everything and ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. If it gets too thick before the pasta is fully cooked, add a splash more water or broth.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and give everything a good stir to coat the pasta evenly in the sticky, spicy-sweet sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For a fresh finish, sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:
Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezer:
For longer storage, let the pasta cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:
Warm in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

Calories: 620
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 68g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Sugar: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 980mg

Note: Values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, shells, or fusilli all work well. Just make sure to adjust the liquid slightly if needed depending on the pasta type.

Is this dish very spicy?

It has a noticeable kick due to the sausage and red pepper flakes, but it’s balanced by the honey. Reduce or omit the flakes for a milder version.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth to create a meatless version without sacrificing flavor.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

A smoky or hickory BBQ sauce adds depth, but you can go with sweet or spicy based on your taste. Avoid overly vinegary sauces unless you like tang.

Do I have to cook the pasta separately?

Nope! The pasta cooks right in the skillet with the sauce, soaking up all the delicious flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a large skillet or pot and adjust the simmering time slightly. Make sure all pasta is covered with liquid.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally while it simmers, especially around the 8–10 minute mark. Also make sure there’s enough liquid.

What sides go well with this dish?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies like broccoli or bell peppers pair wonderfully.

One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta

Author: Kate Walton

Print Recipe

Description

One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage & Pasta is a bold, satisfying dish that combines spicy sausage with a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze. Cooked all in one skillet, it’s the perfect weeknight comfort food—minimal effort, maximum flavor.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear sausage slices until browned on both sides, about 4–5 minutes.
Reduce heat to medium, then add paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat.
Pour in BBQ sauce and honey. Stir and let bubble for 1 minute.
Add uncooked pasta and water or broth. Stir to combine.
Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low.
Simmer 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Stir well, taste, and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley if desired.