Can I use a different type of sausage instead of chorizo?

Absolutely! Italian sausage works beautifully, though you'll get a different flavor profile. If using a milder sausage, consider adding some smoked paprika to mimic that distinctive chorizo flavor.

How can I make this dish lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for some of the heavy cream, though the sauce won't be quite as rich. Another option is to increase the ratio of pasta to sauce or add more vegetables.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

You can use plant-based chorizo alternatives that have become increasingly available. Another option is to use roasted red peppers and smoked paprika to create a similar flavor profile without the meat.

My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it?

Let the sauce simmer a bit longer before adding the pasta. The sauce will also naturally thicken as it cools slightly. If you need a quicker fix, a little more freshly grated parmesan will help thicken it up.

Creamy Chorizo Pasta Recipe

Name: Creamy Chorizo Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: Pasta; 300 g (10½ oz) short pasta (mafalde, penne, macaroni, or rigatoni); Sauce; 200 g (7 oz) chorizo (about 2 chorizo sausages), roughly diced; 1 onion, finely diced; 1 tsp freshly minced garlic; 1 tbsp tomato paste (concentrated puree); ½ cup (75 g) sundried tomatoes, finely chopped (optional); 1½ cups (375 ml) thickened (heavy) cream; 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated parmesan, plus extra to serve; Salt, to taste; Cracked black pepper, to taste

This Creamy Chorizo Pasta is a dream come true for pasta lovers who crave bold flavors but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The spicy chorizo combines with the silky cream sauce to create a luxurious dish that tastes like it took all day, when in reality you’ll have it on the table in just 20 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something spectacular without the fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Satisfying: From start to finish in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when time is short but you’re craving something truly delicious.
Bold Flavors: The spicy chorizo and creamy sauce create an incredible depth of flavor that’s impossible to resist.
Simple Ingredients: Requires just a handful of everyday ingredients that transform into something extraordinary.
Versatile: Works beautifully with whatever pasta shape you have on hand, and can be easily customized to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Short Pasta: The recipe features mafalde, but penne, macaroni, or rigatoni work just as well. The ridges and shapes help capture the creamy sauce in every bite.
Chorizo: The star of the show! Provides a beautiful spicy flavor and releases its own oils, which means you don’t need additional fat for cooking.
Onion: Creates a flavor foundation and adds a gentle sweetness that balances the spicy chorizo.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds an aromatic quality that’s essential for depth of flavor.
Tomato Paste: Adds richness and a concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the sauce without making it watery.
Sundried Tomatoes: Optional but highly recommended! They bring a sweet, tangy intensity that complements the chorizo beautifully.
Heavy Cream: Creates that luscious, velvety sauce that coats each pasta strand perfectly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best! It melts into the cream creating a silky texture while adding a savory, nutty flavor.
Salt and Pepper: For seasoning, though go easy on the salt as both chorizo and parmesan are naturally salty.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Make It Spicier

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the chorizo to amp up the heat.

Add Some Green

Throw in a handful of fresh spinach or arugula at the end, letting the residual heat wilt the greens just before serving.

Seafood Twist

Add cooked shrimp or scallops for a surf and turf variation that’s spectacular for special occasions.

Veggie Boost

Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the onions for added nutrition and texture.

How to Make Creamy Chorizo Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook your chosen pasta shape according to package directions, but undercook it by 1-2 minutes since it will finish cooking in the sauce. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining – this starchy liquid is golden for creating silky sauces.

Step 2: Crisp the Chorizo

In a large, deep pan over medium-high heat, cook the diced chorizo until it’s beautifully crispy and golden. The chorizo will release its own flavorful oils, so no additional fat is needed.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the chorizo, cooking until they’re softened and fragrant. This should take just 1-2 minutes – you want the onion soft but not browned.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Stir in the tomato paste and sundried tomatoes (if using), cooking for about a minute to activate their flavors. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Stir in the freshly grated parmesan until melted and incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that both chorizo and parmesan are already salty.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Add the drained pasta and reserved pasta water to the sauce. Toss everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the pasta to finish cooking and absorb some of the flavors from the sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Plate up this gorgeous pasta dish, sprinkle with extra parmesan, and enjoy the incredible flavors you’ve created in just 20 minutes!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it won’t become mushy when finished in the sauce.
Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is crucial for creating a silky sauce that clings to every piece of pasta.
Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Take the extra minute to grate fresh parmesan.
Quality Chorizo Matters: The better the chorizo, the better your finished dish will taste. Look for varieties with visible fat and spices.
Low and Slow with Cream: Keep the heat medium-low when adding cream to prevent it from separating or curdling.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to cut through the creaminess.

Wine Selection

A medium-bodied red wine like a Spanish Tempranillo or Garnacha complements the chorizo flavors perfectly.

Bread Option

Serve with crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce – it’s too delicious to leave behind!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop beautifully overnight, making this an excellent meal prep option.

Freezing

This pasta dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate when thawed and reheated.

Reheating

Warm leftover pasta gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage instead of chorizo?

Absolutely! Italian sausage works beautifully, though you’ll get a different flavor profile. If using a milder sausage, consider adding some smoked paprika to mimic that distinctive chorizo flavor.
How can I make this dish lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for some of the heavy cream, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. Another option is to increase the ratio of pasta to sauce or add more vegetables.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

You can use plant-based chorizo alternatives that have become increasingly available. Another option is to use roasted red peppers and smoked paprika to create a similar flavor profile without the meat.
My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it?

Let the sauce simmer a bit longer before adding the pasta. The sauce will also naturally thicken as it cools slightly. If you need a quicker fix, a little more freshly grated parmesan will help thicken it up.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chorizo Pasta is truly a weeknight wonder that proves spectacular flavor doesn’t require complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen. The combination of spicy chorizo, sweet tomatoes, and creamy sauce creates a restaurant-worthy dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Try it tonight and discover your new go-to pasta recipe that’s as impressive as it is effortless!