Description
This Sweet and Tangy BBQ Sausage Pasta is a delightful fusion of smoky barbecue flavors and creamy pasta comfort. Featuring penne, Italian sausage, sautéed vegetables, and a luscious BBQ cream sauce, this quick 30-minute skillet meal is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of choice)
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb Italian sausage (bulk or casings removed)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for added creaminess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later.
- Cook the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the BBQ sauce and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine the pasta and sausage: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Finish with cheese and seasoning: Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, if using, allowing it to melt into the sauce for extra creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use any pasta shape you prefer; penne works great for this dish.
- Bulk Italian sausage or sausage removed from casings works best for even cooking.
- Add more BBQ sauce or cream to adjust flavor and creaminess to your liking.
- For a spicier kick, use spicy Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
