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Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta with a Sticky Glaze

Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta with a Sticky Glaze

This addictive skillet meal combines savory sliced sausage with a glossy, caramelized glaze. It is the ultimate balance of sweet and salty, creating a restaurant-quality dinner in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American-Italian Fusion
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 12 oz pasta penne or rigatoni
  • 1 lb sausage sliced rounds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • 3 cloves garlic minced fine
  • 1/4 cup honey clover preferred
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce low sodium
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar for tang
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth liquid base
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional heat
  • 1 tablespoon butter for gloss
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped garnish
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese optional topping

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Pasta Pot
  • Colander
  • Chef Knife
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

Main Instructions
  1. Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles, making sure to save 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water for the sauce.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the sliced sausage. Brown the pieces for 5-7 minutes until they are crispy and golden on both sides, then remove them to a plate.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar, whisking to combine the sticky base.
  4. Stir in the chicken broth and red pepper flakes, bringing the liquid to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes. The sauce should begin to reduce slightly and develop a glossy sheen.
  5. Return the browned sausage to the skillet, tossing to coat every piece in the thickening glaze. Let the meat simmer in the sauce for 3-4 minutes to absorb the sweet and savory flavors.
  6. Fold the cooked pasta into the skillet, stirring constantly to ensure the sauce clings to every ridge of the noodles. Add a splash of pasta water if you prefer a thinner consistency.
  7. Stir in the butter until melted for a silky finish, then season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and a dusting of Parmesan cheese before serving hot.

Notes

For the best results, use a high-quality honey and ensure your skillet is hot before adding the sausage to get those crispy edges. Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container for up to three days, though you may need a splash of water when reheating to loosen the sticky glaze.