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A Weeknight Wonder: My Take on Sweet & Tangy BBQ Sausage Pasta

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Sweet and Tangy BBQ Sausage Pasta is a mouthwatering combination of smoky sausage, rich BBQ sauce, and a creamy, velvety pasta base. This quick and easy 30-minute meal delivers bold flavors the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini work best)
  • 1 lb smoked sausage (kielbasa or andouille), sliced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite—smoky, sweet, or spicy)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (adds richness and balances the tanginess)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Pour in the BBQ sauce and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Combine Everything: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, stirring to coat with the sauce. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to ensure each piece is well-coated with the sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Serve & Enjoy!: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. Serve warm and enjoy the harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta – al dente is key!
  • Feel free to add other vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to the sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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