Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet

To create this dish, gather the following ingredients:

• For the Sausage & Pasta:
  • 1 lb smoked beef sausage, sliced
  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, rigatoni, or penne)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
• For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
  • 1 cup honey
  • 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water slurry
• For Garnish:
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped parsley or basil
  • Extra red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

• Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage slices and sauté until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
• Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes for the honey garlic sauce.
• Step 3: In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add the pasta and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
• Step 4: Stir the honey garlic sauce into the skillet. Add the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
• Step 5: Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet. Toss to coat the sausage and pasta evenly in the sticky sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
• Step 6: Top with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and additional red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! You can substitute the smoked beef sausage with chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based sausage.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Use vegetable broth and replace the sausage with vegetarian sausage or skip it altogether. You can add more vegetables instead!

3. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the honey garlic sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

4. Is this dish spicy? Can I adjust the heat?

The heat level can be adjusted by varying the amount of red pepper flakes. Omit them completely for a milder dish.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just portion them out and store them in airtight containers.

Conclusion

Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet is not just a meal—it’s a culinary experience that takes minimal time and effort to create. With its combination of sweet honey, savory garlic, and hearty sausage, it packs a flavorful punch that will please everyone at the table. Try this easy-to-follow recipe tonight, and watch it become a regular in your dinner rotation!