Name: Creamy Chorizo Pasta: A 20-Minute Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces pasta (such as rigatoni or spaghetti); 8 ounces chorizo (spicy, uncooked); 2 cloves garlic (freshly minced); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option); 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated); 1 teaspoon seasoning (salt, black pepper, and dried oregano)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The moment I discovered creamy chorizo pasta, it felt like I had unearthed a culinary treasure that transformed weeknight dinners into special occasions. This dish combines the comforting essence of pasta with a rich, spicy tomato cream sauce, all coming together in just 20 minutes—perfect for anyone craving quick meals that still pack a punch. With the versatility to easily swap in veggies or choose a vegetarian chorizo, this recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious. Whether gathered around the table with family or enjoying a cozy night in, each bite brings warmth and satisfaction. Curious to learn how to master this comforting dish? Let’s dive in!

Why is Creamy Chorizo Pasta a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe delivers a flavorful meal in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights without sacrificing taste.

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape or add in colorful veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.

Comfort Food Delight: With its rich, creamy sauce, this dish offers all the cozy feels, making it a go-to for family gatherings or intimate dinners.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The spicy chorizo paired with velvety cream creates a delightful taste explosion that everyone will love.

Meal Prep Friendly: The recipe is easy to store, so leftovers can be enjoyed for days—also try serving it with a refreshing salad for balance, just like our Garlic Parmesan Pasta.

Creamy Chorizo Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Pasta – Use your favorite type, such as rigatoni or spaghetti, for the perfect base to soak up that delicious sauce.

For the Sauce
• Chorizo – Spicy, uncooked chorizo gives a rich flavor; consider Italian sausage or ground chicken with a dash of smoked paprika as a substitute.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds a delightful aroma; it’s best to avoid pre-chopped for maximum taste.
• Tomato Paste – This ingredient is essential for a flavorful, tangy tomato base in the sauce.
• Cream – Heavy cream adds richness; for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or soy cream for a dairy-free alternative.
• Parmesan – Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the dish’s flavor substantially; resist the temptation of pre-packaged versions!

For Seasoning
• Seasoning – A mix of salt, black pepper, and dried oregano brings the dish to life; thyme can be a nice alternative if desired.

Make this Creamy Chorizo Pasta the star of your weeknight dinners, and feel free to play around with the ingredients to create your perfect plate!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Chorizo Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by mincing 2 cloves of fresh garlic and grating about half a cup of Parmesan cheese. Slice the uncooked spicy chorizo into small pieces to ensure even cooking. Gather all these ingredients, along with your chosen pasta, so you are ready to create your creamy chorizo pasta without any interruptions.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your favorite pasta, such as rigatoni or spaghetti, and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve approximately 1 cup of the pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Step 3: Sauté the Chorizo
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter, allowing it to melt, then add the sliced chorizo. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chorizo is browned and cooked through, releasing its rich, spicy oils that will enhance your creamy chorizo pasta.

Step 4: Add Garlic
Once the chorizo is browned, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic; you’ll want it fragrant and soft. This step will infuse the chorizo’s spiciness with a delightful aroma, making your pasta sauce even more flavorful.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomato Paste
Next, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the chorizo and garlic mixture. Stir thoroughly and cook for another 3 minutes. This will deepen the flavor, creating a robust base for your creamy chorizo pasta. Watch for the mixture to darken slightly, indicating it’s ready for the next ingredient.

Step 6: Season the Sauce
Sprinkle in about a teaspoon of oregano, along with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Stir these seasonings into the chorizo and tomato mixture before pouring in 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, letting it bubble for a couple of minutes to blend all the flavors beautifully.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
Lower the heat and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, turning creamy and rich. This is where the magic happens, transforming your simple ingredients into a luscious, decadent sauce for your creamy chorizo pasta.

Step 8: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the pasta is drained, add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually mix in the reserved pasta cooking water until you achieve your desired consistency.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Finally, plate your creamy chorizo pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors that celebrates the heart of comforting home cooking.

Storage Tips for Creamy Chorizo Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the creamy sauce fresh, ready for quick reheating.

Freezer: To preserve for longer, freeze the creamy chorizo pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s completely cooled before freezing.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your stored creamy chorizo pasta, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving creamy chorizo pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Creamy Chorizo Pasta Variations

Customize your creamy chorizo pasta to match your tastes and dietary needs—each twist offers a delightful experience.

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan twist.
Vegetarian: Swap chorizo for plant-based chorizo or sautéed mushrooms, maintaining the hearty flavors without meat.
Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free pasta to make this dish accessible to all while still enjoying its creamy goodness.
Extra Veggies: Boost nutritional value by adding sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Enhance the heat by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce, giving it a fiery touch.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can elevate the dish—add them at the end for a burst of freshness.
Nutty Flavor: Mix in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an extra crunch, providing a delicious contrast to the creamy sauce.

As you explore these variations, don’t forget to check out other comforting pasta recipes like our dreamy Ricotta Beef Pasta or the savory Pepper Sausage Pasta for more inspiration!

What to Serve with Creamy Chorizo Pasta

Elevate your meal by pairing this comforting dish with sides that complement its rich flavors and textures.

Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread soaks up the delicious sauce, making every bite even more delightful.
A warm, toasted garlic bread serves as the perfect vessel to capture any extra sauce on your plate. It adds an irresistible aroma that complements the chorizo’s spices wonderfully.
Leafy Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette brightens up the meal, cutting through the creaminess.
The freshness of the salad offers a balance of flavors, enhancing your overall dining experience and making it feel more complete.
Roasted Vegetables: Tender and caramelized, roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add a wholesome touch and colorful flair to the table.
Not only do they contribute essential nutrients, but their sweetness contrasts beautifully with the spicy chorizo, creating an exciting flavor profile.
Creamy Polenta: Silky polenta serves as a delightful alternative, providing a comforting base that enhances the dish’s comforting vibe.
This creamy side can absorb all the lovely sauce, adding layers of flavor while enriching your dining experience.
Sangria: A fruity, refreshing drink like sangria offers a delightful contrast to the rich pasta flavors, creating a balance that dances on your palate.
It’s a perfect companion to keep the meal light and celebratory, ideal for gatherings with friends and family.
Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a light chocolate mousse, which introduces a creamy yet airy texture that rounds out the meal beautifully.
The richness of the dessert will echo the creamy pasta while providing a sweet contrast to the warmth of chorizo.

Expert Tips for Creamy Chorizo Pasta

Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly minced garlic and freshly grated Parmesan for the most vibrant flavor. Pre-packaged ingredients often lack the depth you desire in your creamy chorizo pasta.
Pasta Perfection: Ensure you cook the pasta until it’s al dente. Undercooking just slightly helps it absorb the sauce better, enhancing the dish’s overall texture.
Adjust Consistency: Don’t hesitate to utilize the reserved pasta water. This starchy water helps achieve the perfect creamy sauce consistency while adding additional flavor to your creamy chorizo pasta.
Don’t Rush the Cream: When adding heavy cream, allow the sauce to reach a gentle boil before lowering the heat. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying sauce.
Topping Ideas: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil make excellent garnishes. They add brightness and a burst of flavor that complements the richness of the creamy chorizo pasta.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Chorizo Pasta preparations are ideal for busy weeknights! You can chop the chorizo, mince the garlic, and grate the Parmesan cheese up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can cook the pasta and toss it in a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking; it should be fine for about 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta and add it to a skillet with the sautéed chorizo and sauce mixture, adjusting the consistency with reserved pasta water as needed. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious, creamy goodness with minimal effort!

Creamy Chorizo Pasta Recipe FAQs

What pasta should I use for Creamy Chorizo Pasta?
You can use any pasta you love, such as rigatoni, spaghetti, or even fettuccine! I enjoy rigatoni because its ridges hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

How should I store leftovers of Creamy Chorizo Pasta?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up for optimal freshness. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months, just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I freeze Creamy Chorizo Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the pasta completely cool and transfer it into an airtight container. Label it with the date and enjoy it within 3 months for the best flavor. When you’re ready to savor it again, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to bring back the creaminess.

What can I substitute for chorizo in this recipe?
If you’re looking for alternatives to chorizo, Italian sausage, ground pork, or ground chicken make excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian option, you can use plant-based chorizo or just load up on extra vegetables, like bell peppers and mushrooms, to add depth and flavor!

How can I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
To keep your creamy sauce from getting too thick, remember to reserve about a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. Once you mix the pasta with the sauce, gradually add the reserved water until you reach your desired consistency. This starchy water not only helps with thickness but also enriches the flavor!

Can I add vegetables to my Creamy Chorizo Pasta?
Very! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes can elevate your dish. Simply sauté your chosen veggies in the skillet along with the chorizo for about 2-3 minutes before adding the garlic, combining flavors effortlessly and making your meal both nutritious and hearty.