Ever had a dinner that leaves your taste buds dancing with joy? Imagine a sticky, sweet, and savory medley that not only fills your belly but also makes your kitchen smell heavenly. Yes, I’m talking about Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta! This dish is a quick, one-pan wonder that will have you singing its praises after just one bite.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you whip up this irresistible pasta? Well, let me count the ways!
- One-pan cleanup: Who has time for a sink full of dishes? Not you! This pasta comes together in a single skillet, leaving you with fewer pots to scrub!
- Flavor explosion: With the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and a hint of spice, every forkful is a joy. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Family crowd-pleaser: Kids love it, adults savor it, and even picky eaters can’t resist. It’s like a dinner party in your mouth!
Ingredients:
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta)
- 1 lb (450 g) sausage, sliced (Italian sausage or your preferred type)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
Ready to dive in? Here’s how to make this tasty dish:
- Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the sliced sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant. Stir in honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth; let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Optionally add red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Return the sausage to the skillet, combine with the sauce for 3-4 minutes, then mix in the cooked pasta. Adjust the sauce with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Stir in butter, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan before serving.
How to Make Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta (Overview)
Okay, let’s break it down! Start by cooking your pasta – salt the water like it’s your first date with a fancy chef. As the pasta cooks, brown the sausage in a skillet; those crispy edges are where the magic happens! Toss in garlic and your sweet-savory sauce, letting it all bubble and mingle. Finally, mix in the pasta, add a bit of butter, and serve up a plate of pure happiness. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — that’s where the real flavor comes from!
How to Serve Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta
Ready to impress? Serve this pasta in a big, family-style bowl, topped with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad for a refreshing crunch, or garlic bread to soak up that scrumptious sauce. Just imagine the inviting aroma wafting through your home—trust me, it’s hard to resist!
How to Store Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta
This pasta is a champion when it comes to leftovers! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Want to keep it longer? Freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to devour, just reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to revive that saucy goodness.
Tips to Make Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta
- Swap the sausage: Feel free to use turkey, chicken, or a plant-based sausage for a lighter twist!
- Play with spices: Add some Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for an extra flavor boost.
- Adjust the sweetness: Prefer it less sweet? Just dial down the honey a bit!
- Nutty crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pine nuts for added texture.
Variation
Want to give it a twist? Try adding bell peppers or spinach for more color and nutrition. Feeling adventurous? Make it vegan by swapping sausage with your favorite plant-based protein and using vegetable broth. 🌱
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any short pasta works, so use what you have on hand.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You bet! Prepare it up to a day early and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Just keep it in an airtight container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the sliced sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth; let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Optionally add red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Return the sausage to the skillet and combine with the sauce for 3-4 minutes.
- Mix in the cooked pasta and adjust the sauce with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Stir in butter, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan before serving.
