Introduction
Indulge in a rich and flavorful pasta dish that perfectly combines the smoky and spicy notes of chorizo with a creamy sauce. This recipe is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With just a few simple ingredients, including pasta, chorizo, and creamy tomato sauce, you can create a meal that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
1 pound chorizo sausage, casing removed and crumbled
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles
1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
This delightful pasta dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the combination of textures and flavors that come together with each bite, and don’t forget to top it off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra burst of freshness!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chorizo
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled chorizo until browned and cooked through. Remove the chorizo from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Flour and Seasoning
Sprinkle the flour and Creole seasoning over the onions, stirring to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Step 5: Add Chicken Broth
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Incorporate Cream and Tomatoes
Stir in the heavy cream and diced tomatoes with green chiles. Return the cooked chorizo to the skillet and mix well.
Step 7: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Step 8: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese over the pasta and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
– For a spicier dish, consider using spicy chorizo or adding extra diced green chiles.
– Feel free to substitute other types of pasta if preferred.
– You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for additional nutrition and flavor.
– For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Al dente means the pasta is cooked but still firm to the bite.
Sautéing
In a skillet, sauté onions in the rendered fat from the chorizo. This method adds flavor and softens the onions, which enhances the overall dish.
Making a Roux
Sprinkle flour over the sautéed onions and cook for a minute or two. This creates a roux, which helps to thicken the sauce and adds depth of flavor.
Whisking
Gradually whisk in chicken broth to ensure no lumps form. Whisking also helps incorporate air into the sauce, making it lighter.
Simmering
Bring the mixture to a simmer after adding the chicken broth. Simmering thickens the sauce and allows flavors to meld together.
Combining Ingredients
Stir in heavy cream and diced tomatoes with green chiles to create a creamy sauce. Mix in the chorizo and cooked pasta thoroughly.
Melted Cheese
Sprinkle shredded Mexican blend cheese over the pasta and stir until melted. This creates a rich, creamy texture that binds the dish together.
Garnishing
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. This adds a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, any type of sausage can be used, but keep in mind that it may change the flavor profile of the dish.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chorizo with a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How can I make it spicier?
Add more diced green chiles, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the dish while cooking for extra heat.
Conclusion
This creamy chorizo pasta dish combines the richness of heavy cream with the bold flavors of chorizo and spices, creating a satisfying meal that is both hearty and delicious. The addition of cheese and fresh cilantro elevates the dish further, making it perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chorizo and Black Bean Tacos
Swap the pasta for corn tortillas and fill them with the chorizo mixture, topped with black beans, avocado, and fresh salsa.
Cheesy Chorizo Dip
Combine the chorizo, cream, and cheese in a baking dish, bake until bubbly, and serve with tortilla chips for a savory snack.
Chorizo Breakfast Hash
Sauté chorizo with diced potatoes, bell peppers, and onions, then top with fried eggs for a hearty breakfast.
Pasta Bake with Chorizo
Layer cooked pasta with the chorizo mixture and extra cheese, then bake until golden and bubbly for a comforting casserole.
Chorizo Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mix cooked chorizo with rice, tomatoes, and spices, then stuff into halved bell peppers and bake until tender.
Spicy Chorizo Soup
Create a robust soup by adding chorizo and vegetables to broth, then finish with beans and a sprinkle of cheese for a warming dish.
