One-Pan Creamy Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sausage Pasta

by Nina Johnson May 12, 2025, 3:19 am

Imagine the comforting warmth of smoky, sweet barbecue flavors wrapped around tender penne pasta and juicy sausage bites, all brought together in one creamy, deliciously cheesy sauce. This one-pan dish is exactly what weeknight dinner dreams are made of — minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

The smokiness of barbecue sauce combined with the richness of cream and the slight tang of cheese makes every bite an indulgent experience. Whether you’re cooking for your family or trying to impress a guest with minimal effort, this pasta delivers bold flavor and hearty satisfaction with every mouthful.

Ingredients for One-Pan Creamy Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sausage Pasta

12 oz (340g) penne pasta
1 lb (450g) smoked or sweet sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
½ cup BBQ sauce (preferably sweet & smoky variety)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated mozzarella (optional for extra creaminess)
2 cups chicken broth or water
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pan Creamy Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large deep skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage pieces and cook until nicely browned on the outside and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 2–3 minutes until softened and slightly golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together, then add the uncooked penne pasta. Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.

Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta Is Tender

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Add a splash of broth or water if it becomes too thick before the pasta is cooked.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Return the cooked sausage to the pan. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella (if using). Stir until the cheeses melt completely and coat the pasta and sausage in a thick, creamy sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat and let the pasta sit for 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot straight from the pan.

Storage Instructions

To store any leftovers of the One-Pan Creamy Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sausage Pasta, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: You can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months, though the cream-based sauce may slightly change texture upon reheating.
Reheating Tips: Warm gently on the stove over low heat or microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Estimated Nutrition (per serving — based on 6 servings)

Calories: ~610
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 980mg
Sugar: 8g
Fiber: 2g

Note: Nutrition may vary based on the type of sausage and BBQ sauce used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Fusilli, rigatoni, or rotini work well too. Just adjust the cooking time to match the pasta you choose.

Is it okay to use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich or creamy. Whole milk is the best substitute if needed.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Replace sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a hearty meat-free version.

What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?

A sweet and smoky variety works best, but feel free to experiment with your favorite BBQ flavor.

Can I make it spicier?

Yes! Add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or use a spicy BBQ sauce to turn up the heat.

Will this dish still taste good without cheese?

It will still be flavorful due to the BBQ sauce and sausage, but the creaminess will be reduced.

How do I avoid overcooking the pasta?

Stir occasionally and taste test near the end of cooking time. Add more broth if the liquid evaporates too quickly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pot and extend the cooking time slightly. Make sure there’s enough liquid for the pasta to absorb.