Description
A weeknight dinner featuring tender penne pasta and golden-browned sausage in a sweet and savory honey-soy glaze.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 1 lb (450 g) sausage, sliced (Italian or smoked)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Before draining, scoop out and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and cook 5–7 minutes until edges are golden and caramelized. Transfer the sausage to a plate.
- Make the sauce: Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Stir, scrape up brown bits from the pan, and simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced and glossy. Add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes now if using.
- Combine pasta and sausage: Return the browned sausage to the skillet and simmer together for 3–4 minutes. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in the reserved 1/2 cup pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
- Finish: Stir in 1 tablespoon butter until melted. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For gluten-free, swap with your favorite GF pasta. Adjust sausage type for different flavor profiles and use honey alternatives if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian