Are you craving a delicious, satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This chorizo sausage pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Packed with spicy chorizo, vibrant vegetables, and tossed in a creamy tomato sauce, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike, and it's a great way to enjoy a healthy and homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chorizo sausage, casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Chorizo: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chorizo from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked chorizo and pasta to the sauce. Toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chorizo Pasta:
- Choose your chorizo wisely: Spanish chorizo tends to be spicier than Mexican chorizo. Select the type that best suits your taste preferences.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to a perfect dish. It should be firm to the bite.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes or use a smaller amount. Conversely, add more for extra heat!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce.
- Make it a complete meal: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette complements this pasta dish perfectly.
Variations:
- Creamy Chorizo Pasta: Stir in a 1/2 cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Vegetarian Chorizo Pasta: Substitute the chorizo with plant-based chorizo for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Spicy Chorizo Pasta: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
This chorizo sausage pasta recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that's perfect for any night of the week. It's a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen. Enjoy!