DINNER

Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet: A Flavorful One-Pan Wonder

Chef Olivia

January 21, 2026
5 min read

Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet: A Flavorful One-Pan Wonder

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why make this recipe

Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet is a perfect dish for busy weeknights. It combines the savory goodness of sausage with the sweet and tangy flavor of honey garlic sauce, all in one pan. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also brings a delightful mix of flavors and textures to your dinner table. Plus, it allows for quick cleanup, making it a great choice for families or anyone looking to enjoy a tasty meal without the fuss.

how to make Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet

Ingredients:

12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta)
1 lb (450 g) sausage, sliced (Italian sausage, smoked 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, for a bit of heat)
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet: A Flavorful One-Pan Wonder

Directions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water generously to season the pasta. Once the pasta is al dente (firm to the bite), drain it and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, which may come in handy later to adjust the sauce consistency.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced sausage. Brown the sausage on both sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The goal here is to achieve a nice, crispy outer layer, enhancing the overall texture of the dish. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sticky Honey Garlic Sauce
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly. Then, pour in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir the mixture well, allowing the ingredients to combine into a smooth sauce.

Next, add the chicken broth and bring the sauce to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken. If you’re a fan of a little spice, toss in the red pepper flakes at this stage for a gentle kick.

Step 4: Reintroduce the Sausage and Pasta
Once the sauce has thickened, add the browned sausage back into the skillet. Stir to coat the sausage pieces thoroughly in the sticky honey garlic sauce. Let the sausage simmer in the sauce for about 3-4 minutes, ensuring it absorbs all the delicious flavors.

Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it with the sausage and sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, this is where you can add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Stir in the butter to give the sauce an extra layer of richness and silkiness.

Step 5: Season and Garnish
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Once you’re happy with the flavor, turn off the heat and garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If you love cheese, a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan on top adds a wonderful savory note.

how to serve Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet

Serve this dish warm, right from the skillet to the plate. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a family-friendly meal, consider serving it in big bowls to allow everyone to dig in together.

how to store Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

tips to make Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet

Use your favorite type of sausage for a personal touch.
Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
If you want a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha.

variation (if any)

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and checking the soy sauce for gluten content. Additionally, try using different protein sources like chicken or shrimp for a twist on the recipe.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta like fusilli or farfalle.

What can I substitute for honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for honey.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead. Just combine them when you’re ready to eat!