If you are craving a dish that combines smoky richness, sweet BBQ flair, and creamy comfort all in one pot, this One-Pan Creamy Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sausage Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a luscious, cheesy sauce with bites of browned sausage infused with smoky paprika and sweet BBQ notes. It not only bursts with flavor but also requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Let me take you through every step to make this delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will ask you to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet impactful ingredients. Every item adds a unique layer to the texture, taste, or aroma — from the smoky sausage and paprika to the creamy cheeses and BBQ sauce that tie everything together beautifully.
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta: The perfect shape to soak up the creamy, flavorful sauce without becoming mushy.
- 1 lb (450g) smoked or sweet sausage, sliced: Provides the smoky, meaty backbone of the dish — choose your favorite for best results.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the sausage and sautéing the onion, adding a subtle fruity note.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and a gentle bite once softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a deep aromatic base flavor.
- 1½ cups heavy cream: Creates a luscious, velvety texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (sweet & smoky preferred): The star ingredient that takes this pasta to the next level with smoky sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Boosts the smoky depth and adds warm color.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Enhances flavor with gentle heat.
- Salt to taste: Balances and highlights all the other flavors.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts smoothly and adds a sharp, creamy richness.
- ½ cup grated mozzarella (optional): For an extra gooey, stretchy finish when melted.
- 2 cups chicken broth or water: Cooking liquid that adds moisture and helps the pasta cook perfectly while infusing subtle flavor.
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional): Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh herbal note to balance the hearty flavors.
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked or sweet sausage and cook until each piece is beautifully browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Browning the sausage well is key to building that rich smoky flavor, so take your time. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, you’ll find some of that delicious rendered sausage fat — perfect for flavor. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook it for 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and becomes fragrant. Then stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. These aromatics lay the groundwork for the creamy sauce that will soon come together.
Step 3: Combine the Liquid Ingredients
Next, pour in the chicken broth (or water) and heavy cream, along with the BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything well to combine these bold and creamy flavors, forming the luscious base of your pasta sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Add your penne pasta to the pan, making sure it is submerged in the liquid mixture. Bring this to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the flavors and cook right in the sauce, thickening it beautifully and making each bite irresistibly creamy.
Step 5: Return the Sausage and Melt the Cheese
When the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, add the browned sausage slices back into the skillet. Scatter shredded cheddar cheese and optional mozzarella over the top. Stir gently until all the cheese has melted into a gooey, creamy dream that hugs every piece of pasta and sausage.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once everything is combined, let the dish rest for about 2 minutes off the heat. This brief rest allows the sauce to settle and thicken just a touch more. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that perfectly balances the smoky richness.
How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add an inviting burst of green and a subtle freshness that cuts through the creamy, smoky layers. You can also consider a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or a dusting of parmesan for added depth.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. Try a simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to brighten the plate or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts to add earthiness and crunch. Garlic bread is another classic side that complements the creamy sauce by adding texture and that irresistible garlicky aroma.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, bake the finished pasta in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs for a golden crust. You could also serve it in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. A drizzle of extra BBQ sauce right before serving amps up the smoky sweetness and makes the dish look extra mouthwatering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This One-Pan Creamy Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sausage Pasta Recipe holds up well in the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The pasta naturally absorbs more sauce as it sits, resulting in an even richer flavor the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this pasta freezes nicely too. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. It’s best eaten within 2 months for optimal taste. Note that the cheese sauce might thicken a bit after freezing but will loosen again when reheated gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce is too thick to bring back its creamy consistency without drying out the sausage or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works great for holding the sauce, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just keep an eye on cooking times as different shapes absorb liquid differently.
Is this recipe spicy?
This One-Pan Creamy Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sausage Pasta Recipe has a gentle warmth from black pepper and smoked paprika but isn’t spicy hot. You can easily add chili flakes or hot sauce to bring more heat if you like.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can create a vegetarian version by using plant-based sausage alternatives and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Smoky flavors are harder to mimic exactly, but smoked paprika and BBQ sauce still build lots of flavor.
What BBQ sauce works best?
Go for a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce since it complements the sausage and smoked paprika perfectly. Avoid overly spicy or vinegary sauces to keep the flavor balanced and creamy.
Can I use low-fat cream or milk?
For the creamiest texture, heavy cream is best. Using lower-fat substitutes will result in a thinner sauce and less richness, but you can still make it work by reducing the broth slightly to maintain creaminess.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about a dish that combines ease, flavor, and comfort in one skillet, and this One-Pan Creamy Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sausage Pasta Recipe delivers exactly that. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend feast, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your rotation. Give it a try and watch those smoky, cheesy flavors bring warmth and joy to your table with every creamy bite!
Print
One-Pan Creamy Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pan Creamy Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sausage Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender penne pasta, smoky sausage, and a rich creamy BBQ sauce all cooked together in one skillet for convenience and maximum taste.
Ingredients
Pasta & Sausage
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 1 lb (450g) smoked or sweet sausage, sliced
Sauce & Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (sweet & smoky preferred)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated mozzarella (optional)
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage slices and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add chopped onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add liquids and seasoning: Pour in chicken broth (or water), heavy cream, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cook the pasta: Add the penne pasta ensuring it is fully submerged in the sauce mixture. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Combine sausage and cheese: Return the cooked sausage to the pan. Add shredded cheddar cheese and grated mozzarella (if using). Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Rest and garnish: Let the pasta rest for 2 minutes to thicken further. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Using smoked or sweet sausage adds depth to the flavor, but mild sausage can be substituted.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use spicy BBQ sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Chicken broth adds more flavor than water, but water can be used if necessary.
- Adjust salt according to the saltiness of your BBQ sauce and sausage.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
