Rich, indulgent, and oh-so-flavoursome, this Creamy Chorizo Pasta is your next go-to comfort meal! Imagine smoky chorizo tossed with al dente pasta, all coated in a velvety cream sauce with a hint of garlic and parmesan.
It’s a dish that feels luxurious but is deceptively easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress without the stress. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients needed
This ingredient list is packed with bold, smoky flavours and creamy goodness, making every bite of this pasta an indulgent delight. Here’s why each ingredient is essential!
- Chorizo: Smoky and spiced, it infuses bold flavour. Slice into half-moons for even cooking.
- Red Onion: Adds sweetness and depth. Finely dice for a smooth texture.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a rich, aromatic base.
- Tomato Paste: Tangy sweetness that complements the smoky chorizo and creamy sauce.
- Chicken Stock: Enhances savoury depth. Use vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
- Thickened Cream: Creates a velvety, rich sauce. Double or heavy cream works too.
- Farfalle Pasta: Holds sauce well, but penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are great substitutes.
Recipe tips & notes
With these handy tips, your creamy chorizo pasta will turn out perfectly every time. They’re all about maximising flavour and texture!
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your pasta, always set aside at least half a cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid is perfect for loosening the sauce and helping it cling beautifully to the pasta.
- Cook Pasta Just Right: Slightly undercooking your pasta ensures it absorbs the flavours of the sauce without becoming mushy. Letting it finish cooking in the sauce also creates a more cohesive dish.
- Low and Slow for Onion: Cooking the onion over low heat allows it to release its natural sweetness without burning, creating a perfect base for the sauce.
- Chorizo Tips: Cook the chorizo until it releases its oils and becomes slightly crispy. This enhances the smoky flavour that carries through the entire dish.
- Fresh Garnishes: A sprinkle of parsley and freshly grated parmesan adds a burst of freshness and elevates the presentation.
Substitutions & additions
This pasta is super customisable—here are some fun swaps and extras to make it your own or cater to what you have on hand!
- Protein: Swap chorizo for bacon, pancetta, or even Italian sausage for a different flavour profile. Vegetarians can substitute the chorizo with plant-based sausages or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty alternative.
- Pasta: While farfalle is a great choice, other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli also work well. Gluten-free pasta can be used if needed.
- Vegetables: Add a handful of spinach, roasted capsicum, or blanched broccoli for extra nutrients and colour. Cherry tomatoes are another great addition for a fresh pop.
- Sauce Variations: For added richness, stir in a tablespoon of mascarpone or cream cheese. If you enjoy spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can give the dish a kick.
- Herbs: If you don’t have thyme, substitute with oregano, rosemary, or a sprinkle of mixed Italian herbs.
How to make this recipe
Follow this easy guide to create a pasta dish that’s rich, smoky, and packed with irresistible flavour. In just a few steps, you’ll have a meal that’s as impressive as it is comforting!
Step 1
Cook farfalle according to the packet instructions. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over low-medium heat, sauté onion for 5 minutes until softened, then add chorizo and cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 2
Stir in tomato paste, chicken stock, and thyme, mixing well to coat the chorizo and onion. Simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
Step 3
Pour in the thickened cream and stir to combine, cooking gently over low heat for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 4
Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, stirring gently. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed, then serve hot, garnished with parsley and parmesan.
Creamy Chorizo Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 Chorizo cut into half-moons
- 1/2 Red onion diced
- 1 Garlic clove crushed
- 1 Tbsp Tomato paste
- 1/2 cup Chicken stock
- 250 ml Thickened cream
- 250 g Farfalle
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the farfalle according to the packet instructions, undercooking it by 1 minute. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over low-medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened, then add the chorizo and cook for another 5 minutes until it crisps slightly.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, then add chicken stock and thyme. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly and combine the flavours.
- Pour in thickened cream and stir to combine. Simmer on medium-low for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Add the drained farfalle to the pan and toss gently to coat in the sauce. Stir carefully, adjusting with pasta water if necessary, until the sauce clings perfectly.
- Divide the pasta into serving bowls and top with fresh parsley and grated parmesan. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition
Storage & reheating
Keep your pasta tasting fresh and delicious by following these simple storage and reheating tips. Whether you’re enjoying it the next day or later in the week, these methods will ensure it stays creamy and satisfying.
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The pasta reheats well, maintaining its creamy texture when stored properly.
- Freezer: Cream-based sauces don’t freeze as well, as the cream can separate. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or within a few days.
- Reheating:
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat in a pan. Add a small amount of chicken stock or reserved pasta water to refresh the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir gently until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer the pasta to a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of chicken stock or cream, then heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even reheating.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute chorizo with bacon, pancetta, or even a mild Italian sausage for a less spicy flavour. Plant-based sausages also work well for a vegetarian twist.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water or chicken stock until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of red chilli flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
What other pasta shapes can I use?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are excellent options as they hold the sauce well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the pasta fresh and combine it with the reheated sauce for the best results.
Karrine
Friday 21st of February 2025
Hey Angie! I follow you over on Youtube and am enjoying following your food-influencer journey. I'm going to make this pasta this week. Just a quick note to let you know the name of this pasta dish says 'bacon' but there isn't any in the recipe? Is this a typo? :)
Angie Dixon
Thursday 27th of February 2025
Hey, let me know how you go with it! Yes it's a typo. Thanks for letting me know :)