If you are on the hunt for a dish that feels comforting, vibrant, and packed with bold flavors, the Creamy Bell Pepper and Chorizo Spaghetti Recipe is an absolute must-try. Picture tender spaghetti perfectly coated in a luscious, creamy sauce, bursting with the smoky, spicy goodness of chorizo and the sweet crunch of colorful bell peppers. It’s a meal that comes together with simple ingredients but delivers a punch of flavor and visual appeal that will wow your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to share your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building the delicious layers of flavor. From the silky texture of the heavy cream to the vibrant pop of bell peppers, every element is essential in making this dish shine.
- Spaghetti (12 ounces): Classic spaghetti provides the perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce and spicy chorizo flavors.
- Chorizo (8 ounces, sliced): Adds a smoky, spicy punch that really wakes up the dish and complements the creaminess.
- Medium onion (1, chopped): Offers a sweet and savory foundation when sautéed, balancing the boldness of chorizo.
- Bell peppers (2, sliced): Any color works beautifully, adding sweetness, crunch, and vibrant hues for a feast for the eyes and palate.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings that fragrant warmth that instantly makes the dish feel homemade and cozy.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the rich, velvety sauce that ties everything together into a dreamy texture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Gives a salty, nutty depth that enhances every bite of the sauce.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it gently cooks the ingredients while infusing a subtle fruity note.
- Fresh parsley: A bright, herbal garnish that adds freshness and a pop of green to finish the dish perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Bell Pepper and Chorizo Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package’s instructions until al dente. This ensures the noodles have just enough bite to stand up to the creamy sauce without getting mushy. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining – it’s a secret weapon for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later.
Step 2: Brown the Chorizo
While the pasta cooks, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chorizo and cook it until it’s beautifully browned and sizzling. This step renders out the flavorful oils from the chorizo, creating a savory base that will permeate the entire dish with rich, smoky notes.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion, Bell Peppers, and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and sliced bell peppers to the skillet and sauté until they soften and become tender. This adds a sweet, caramelized layer that contrasts perfectly with the spicy chorizo. Add the minced garlic last and cook for just about a minute until fragrant – garlic burns quickly, so watch it carefully!
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Turn the heat down to low, then pour in the heavy cream and give everything a good stir to combine. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until the cheese melts into the sauce, making it silky and indulgent. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste, balancing the richness with just enough seasoning.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss it gently with the sauce, making sure every strand is coated in that dreamy creaminess. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the perfect silky consistency that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, scatter freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous aroma. Your Creamy Bell Pepper and Chorizo Spaghetti Recipe is now ready to be served and savored!
How to Serve Creamy Bell Pepper and Chorizo Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you crave a bit more heat. Fresh parsley or basil leaves bring a lovely herbal brightness that balances the luscious creaminess.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty baguette also make excellent companions, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the spaghetti in individual shallow bowls to showcase the colorful bell peppers and chorizo pieces. You can also add a lemon wedge alongside to add a fresh squeeze of citrus that wakes up the flavors just before eating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Bell Pepper and Chorizo Spaghetti Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, giving you a tasty, ready-to-reheat meal on busy days.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that the cream sauce might slightly separate upon thawing. To freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and use within a month for best flavor and texture.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional cream to bring back that silky sauce consistency. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the sauce from breaking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully, you can substitute with penne, fettuccine, or even rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to maintain the perfect al dente texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
The chorizo adds a mild to moderate spiciness depending on the brand you choose. If you prefer less heat, look for a milder chorizo or reduce the amount slightly. You can always add red pepper flakes later if you want more kick.
What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?
If heavy cream is unavailable, a mixture of milk and cream cheese works as a substitute to maintain creaminess. Coconut milk can be used for a dairy-free version, though it will slightly change the flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chorizo for smoked paprika-seasoned tofu or a plant-based sausage to keep that smoky, hearty element. Adding mushrooms can also boost the umami and texture.
How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
To avoid separation, cook the sauce gently over low heat and avoid boiling once the cream and cheese are added. Stir frequently and add reserved pasta water gradually to keep it smooth and luscious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s both cozy and exciting, this Creamy Bell Pepper and Chorizo Spaghetti Recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve to friends and family. Once you try it, this recipe will likely become one of your favorites to make again and again, delivering warmth, flavor, and satisfaction in every forkful.
Print
Creamy Bell Pepper and Chorizo Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish-inspired
Description
A rich and flavorful Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper Chorizo dish combining tender pasta with savory chorizo, sautéed bell peppers, and a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti
Meat
- 8 ounces chorizo, sliced
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- Olive oil (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water following the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Brown chorizo: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chorizo and cook until it is browned and slightly crispy.
- Sauté vegetables: Add chopped onion and sliced bell peppers to the skillet with chorizo and sauté until they become tender. Then stir in minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Create creamy sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine with the chorizo and vegetables. Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese, and season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together gently. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish and serve: Finish the dish by sprinkling fresh parsley on top before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water is important as it helps to loosen the sauce and make it cling better to the pasta.
- You can use any color of bell peppers or a mix for vibrant presentation and flavor variety.
- For a spicier dish, choose a spicy chorizo or add red pepper flakes when sautéing.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy sauce at its freshest.
- To make it lighter, substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
