Spicy BBQ Sausage Pasta with Sweet Chili Sauce

Welcome to a flavorful journey with my Sweet Chili BBQ Sausage Pasta recipe. This skillet creation is the epitome of sweet and heat, all wrapped up in a cheesy, comforting pasta dish that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Picture tangy, smoky BBQ flavors mingling with the zesty kick of sweet chili sauce, creating a symphony of bold flavors that will leave you craving for more.

When life gets busy and you need a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on taste, this Sweet Chili BBQ Sausage Pasta Skillet comes to the rescue. With everything cooking in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze, and you’re left with a hearty, saucy pasta loaded with sausage and veggies. Even the pickiest eaters in your family will be asking for seconds, thanks to the irresistible “pizza pasta” vibes this dish exudes.

Whether you opt for mild Italian sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner protein option, or decide to sprinkle some smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese for an extra kick, this recipe is endlessly customizable to suit your preferences. So, grab a fork, dig into this delightful mashup of American comfort pasta and bold barbecue flavors with a sweet chili twist, and savor every bite of this weeknight hero that’s bound to vanish from your dinner table in no time.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy one-skillet meal for busy weeknights
• Versatile recipe with options for leaner protein and bolder flavors
• Leftovers store well and develop deeper flavors over time
• Adaptable dish that accommodates different pasta shapes and heat preferences

Why You’ll Love This Spicy BBQ Sausage Pasta with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: This recipe is perfect for those who want a delicious meal without the hassle of cleaning multiple pots and pans – everything cooks in one skillet!
• Sweet and Spicy Fusion: The combination of sweet chili sauce and BBQ sauce creates a flavor profile that is both tangy and smoky, appealing to those who love a balance of sweet and heat in their dishes.
• Cheesy Comfort: Melted cheese coats the pasta, sausage, and veggies, providing a comforting and indulgent element that cheese lovers will adore.
• Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: Kids love the “pizza pasta” taste of this dish, making it a favorite for family dinners. It’s also a hit at potlucks and gatherings due to its bold flavors and familiar comfort food appeal.
• Customizable Ingredients: Whether you prefer a leaner protein option like turkey sausage, a specific cheese for added richness, or a different pasta shape, this recipe allows for flexibility to suit your taste preferences.
• Convenient Leftovers: The dish reheats well, and the flavors deepen overnight, making it a great option for meal prep or enjoying leftovers for days to come.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy the skillet meal on its own, pair it with garlic bread and a salad, or dress it up with additional cheese or red pepper flakes for added flair.
• Unique Flavor Fusion: The blend of American comfort pasta with bold barbecue flavors and a twist of sweet chili sauce creates a unique and exciting culinary experience that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients for Spicy BBQ Sausage Pasta with Sweet Chili Sauce

Main Components

• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 450 g Italian sausage, sliced (mild or spicy)
• 150 g bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, or mixed)
• 240 ml BBQ sauce (hickory or honey preferred)
• Salt, to taste
• 240 ml sweet chili sauce (bottled)
• 30 ml olive oil
• 225 g penne pasta
• 80 g red onion, thinly sliced
• 500 ml chicken broth, low sodium
• 5 g garlic powder
• 100 g shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)

Optional Swaps and Additions

• Smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese for bolder flavour
• Mozzarella cheese for a creamier profile
• Turkey sausage for leaner protein

Pro Tips for Spicy BBQ Sausage Pasta with Sweet Chili Sauce

Pro tip 1: To elevate the flavors in this Sweet Chili BBQ Sausage Pasta Skillet, consider using smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese for a bolder taste profile. The richness and smokiness of these cheeses add an extra layer of depth to the dish, complementing the sweet heat of the chili and BBQ sauces.

Pro tip 2: Experiment with different pasta shapes like rotini or rigatoni for a fun twist on this recipe. These shapes hold the sauce well and provide a delightful textural contrast to the sausage and veggies. Remember to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the pasta cooks evenly in the skillet.

Pro tip 3: For those looking to make this dish ahead of time for meal prep or leftovers, refrigerate in a well-sealed container. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and maintain the pasta’s texture. The flavors of this dish actually deepen overnight, making it a great option for make-ahead dinners.

How to Make Spicy BBQ Sausage Pasta with Sweet Chili Sauce

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add sliced Italian sausage and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and crisp.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Seasoning

Add sliced bell peppers, red onion, and garlic powder to the pan. Cook and stir for 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened but still firm.

Step 3: Incorporate Pasta and Sauces

Combine uncooked pasta, chicken broth, sweet chili sauce, and BBQ sauce in a pot. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer.

Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta Is Tender

Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring halfway, until pasta is al dente and sauce thickens.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Uncover and stir shredded cheese into the sauce until fully melted and creamy.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot in bowls and garnished with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared and enjoyed the Sweet Chili BBQ Sausage Pasta Skillet, store any leftovers in a well-sealed container in the refrigerator. Leftovers will keep well for up to three days. To maintain the best texture when reheating, it is recommended to reheat the dish in a covered skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid using the microwave for reheating if possible, as it can affect the overall texture of the pasta.

When storing the dish for leftovers, keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb more sauce as it sits overnight. If you plan on having leftovers and prefer a saucier consistency, consider adding a few tablespoons of broth to the stored pasta before chilling. This will help ensure that the pasta retains its desired sauciness when reheated. Whether enjoying the Sweet Chili BBQ Sausage Pasta Skillet fresh or as leftovers, it is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be easily reheated for future meals.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter option, consider using turkey sausage in place of Italian sausage. Turkey sausage offers a leaner protein alternative while still providing a flavorful element to the dish. The milder flavor of turkey sausage can be a great choice if you prefer a less spicy option.

If you want to experiment with different cheese flavors, consider using smoked gouda or pepper jack instead of the traditional cheddar or mozzarella. These cheeses can add a bold and unique flavor profile to the dish, complementing the sweet chili and BBQ sauces. Smoked gouda or pepper jack can enhance the overall richness of the sauce and provide a delicious twist to the classic recipe.

Feel free to swap the penne pasta with other shapes like rotini, rigatoni, or elbows. These pasta shapes work well in the skillet and cook evenly with the other ingredients. Choosing a different pasta shape can bring a fun twist to the dish while maintaining the comforting and satisfying elements of the original recipe.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try topping the Sweet Chili BBQ Sausage Pasta with a dollop of creamy burrata cheese just before serving. The addition of the rich and creamy burrata adds a luxurious touch to the tangy and smoky flavors of the dish, creating a delightful contrast in textures.

Another creative idea is to serve the pasta in individual mini cast iron skillets for a fun and rustic presentation. Not only does this add a charming touch to the meal, but it also keeps the dish warm for longer at the table, allowing guests to enjoy the flavors and aromas of the Sweet Chili BBQ Sausage Pasta skillet-style.

FAQs for Spicy BBQ Sausage Pasta with Sweet Chili Sauce

Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! Try turkey sausage for a lighter option or spicy varieties for extra heat.

What are some alternative cheese options to use in this dish?

Cheddar or mozzarella are classic choices, but smoked gouda or pepper jack add extra flavor.

Can I use a different type of pasta if I don’t have penne?

Yes, penne, rotini, rigatoni, or elbows all work well and cook evenly in the skillet.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

The heat level depends on your sausage and sweet chili sauce—choose mild or spicy to suit your taste.

Conclusion

I hope this Sweet Chili BBQ Sausage Pasta recipe brings as much joy and simplicity to your dinner table as it does to mine. The flavors are bold, comforting, and perfect for those nights when you need a reliable meal that comes together quickly. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite sausage, cheese, and pasta shapes to make it your own.

Remember, cooking is all about creativity and making dishes that suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a fan of spicy kick or prefer a milder profile, this versatile skillet pasta can easily adapt to your liking. So gather your ingredients, give this Sweet Chili BBQ Sausage Pasta a try, and enjoy the delicious results!