A delightful and flavorful pasta dish that combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with a sweet and smoky sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
→ Main Components
- 450 g Italian sausage, sliced (mild or spicy)
- 225 g penne pasta
- 240 ml sweet chili sauce (bottled)
- 240 ml BBQ sauce (hickory or honey preferred)
- 150 g bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, or mixed)
- 80 g red onion, thinly sliced
- 500 ml chicken broth, low sodium
- 100 g shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)
- 30 ml olive oil
- 5 g garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
→ Optional Swaps and Additions
- Mozzarella cheese for a creamier profile
- Turkey sausage for leaner protein
- Smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese for bolder flavor
Preparation:
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and crisp on the edges.
Step 2: Add sliced bell peppers, red onion, and garlic powder to the pan. Stir and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables soften slightly but retain texture.
Step 3: Add uncooked pasta, chicken broth, sweet chili sauce, and BBQ sauce. Stir to combine. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid.
Step 4: Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until pasta is al dente and sauce has thickened. Stir once halfway through to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Remove lid and stir in shredded cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and sauce is creamy.
Step 6: Taste for seasoning. Add salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Flavor Fusion: The combination of sweet chili and BBQ sauce creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe with different types of sausage, cheese, and vegetables to suit your preferences.
- One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Comfort Food: It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream.
- Pair with a light beer or a glass of red wine.
Tips:
- For enhanced depth, brown the sausage thoroughly before adding vegetables to develop a savory base.
- If using alternative sausages or cheeses, adjust seasoning and simmering time as needed.
- To prevent sticking, stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
Preparation Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 550-650 per serving
- Protein: 30-35g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
Conclusion
The Sweet Chili BBQ Sausage Pasta is a fantastic dish that brings together a wonderful blend of flavors. Its ease of preparation and adaptability make it a must-try recipe for any home cook. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for a gathering, this pasta is sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, smoky, and savory in every bite!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes, you can substitute penne with other short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted accordingly.
- What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?
- If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, you can make a substitute by mixing regular chili sauce with a bit of honey or maple syrup to achieve the desired sweetness.
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Yes, you can make it vegetarian by replacing the sausage with plant-based sausage or adding more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to rehydrate the sauce.
- Is this recipe spicy?
- The spice level can be adjusted to your preference. If you use mild Italian sausage and bottled sweet chili sauce, the dish will have a mild to medium spice level. You can increase the spice by using spicy Italian sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
