Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Quick Creamy Chorizo Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 6 reviews

Quick Creamy Chorizo Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines spicy chorizo sausage with a rich creamy tomato sauce, perfectly coating al dente pasta. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe layers flavors through sautéing chorizo and vegetables, then simmering with cream and parmesan for a luscious finish. Ideal for a satisfying weeknight meal for two, garnished with fresh parsley and a hint of lemon juice for brightness.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 200 grams dried pasta (or 300 grams fresh)

Chorizo and Vegetables

  • 120 grams chorizo sausage, sliced into 0.5cm rounds
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
  • 2 – 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced

Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 3/4 cup cream
  • 40 grams parmesan, very finely grated
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • salt and pepper to taste

Finish

  • 1/2 cup packed Italian parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions, but consider undercooking by one minute so the pasta can finish cooking while bubbling in the sauce. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Cook Chorizo: Heat a large fry pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chorizo and cook for 3 minutes or until lightly golden. No additional oil is needed as chorizo releases fat; add a drizzle if necessary.
  3. Cook Onion: Add finely diced red onion and a big pinch of salt to the pan. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the onion softens, reducing heat if the onion starts to brown.
  4. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to release its aroma.
  5. Add Tomato Paste and Paprika: Incorporate the tomato paste and paprika, cooking down for 2 minutes to develop layered flavors.
  6. Add Cream and Simmer: Pour in the cream and stir well. Bring to a gentle simmer, lowering the heat as necessary to avoid boiling. Initially, the sauce may look curdled but will come together soon.
  7. Incorporate Pasta Water: Add one-third cup of reserved pasta water, mixing well and bringing the sauce back to a gentle simmer.
  8. Add Parmesan: Push the chorizo to one side and add the grated parmesan in two batches, stirring to allow the cheese to melt fully before adding the second half.
  9. Add Lemon Juice: Quickly whisk in the fresh lemon juice for brightness.
  10. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the pan. Mix well and let it gently bubble for 1 to 2 minutes so the sauce thickens and clings to the pasta.
  11. Add Parsley and Serve: Toss in the finely chopped Italian parsley right before serving and enjoy the vibrant, creamy dish.
  12. Optional Video: Check out the video to see the sauce preparation process in detail.

Notes

  • Under-cooking pasta slightly allows it to absorb more flavor in the sauce and prevents overcooking.
  • No additional oil is typically needed due to the fat in chorizo, but add a small amount if the pan becomes dry.
  • Cook garlic briefly to avoid burning, which can impart bitterness.
  • Simmer the cream gently and avoid boiling to prevent splitting of the sauce.
  • Add parmesan gradually to ensure smooth melting and a creamy texture.
  • A splash of lemon juice brightens and balances the richness of the sauce.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired