If you’re looking for a dish that’s full of flavor and packed with a little kick, this Spicy Sausage Pasta is the answer. Combining the rich, savory taste of sausage and chorizo with a zesty tomato sauce, this dish offers a delicious blend of spices that will tantalize your taste buds. The comforting texture of the pasta, combined with the bold flavors from the sausage and chorizo, creates a perfect balance for an irresistible meal.
Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining friends, this dish is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but flavorful enough to impress guests. The sausage and chorizo infuse the pasta with a smoky, spicy undertone, while the tomato sauce adds a rich, tangy base. This recipe is versatile, and you can adjust the heat level based on your preferences. If you enjoy a mild heat, you can reduce the amount of chorizo or add more for an extra spicy kick.
This Spicy Sausage Pasta is quick to prepare and is sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation, offering a hearty and flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Spicy Sausage Pasta is one of those recipes that you can’t help but love. It brings together a combination of flavors that are rich, spicy, and satisfying. Here’s why you’ll want to add it to your recipe collection:
- Bold and Flavorful: The sausage and chorizo create a depth of flavor that’s smoky and spicy, while the tomato sauce provides a tangy contrast, making each bite exciting.
- Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty, flavorful meal ready to go. The pasta cooks while the meats brown, so there’s minimal downtime.
- Customizable: Adjust the heat by adding more or less chorizo, or even add some chili flakes for an extra fiery kick. You can also mix in vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added texture and flavor.
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything is cooked in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze. The pasta, sausage, and sauce come together in perfect harmony, making this a stress-free dish.
Ingredients
- Pasta
- Sausage
- Chorizo
- Tomato sauce
Variations
While this recipe is delicious as it is, there are many ways you can tweak it to make it your own:
- Add Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and spinach are great additions. You can sauté them along with the sausage and chorizo for added flavor and texture.
- Use Different Meats: You can swap out the sausage and chorizo for ground turkey or chicken sausage if you’re looking for a leaner option. This will still keep the dish flavorful without the extra fat.
- Spicy Boost: For an extra spicy version, you can add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce. This will give the dish a fiery twist that spice lovers will enjoy.
- Add Cheese: If you want a creamy texture, stir in some cream or grated Parmesan cheese after tossing the pasta with the sauce. It will add richness and a creamy finish.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage and Chorizo
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sausage and chorizo. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the meats cook evenly.
Step 3: Add the Tomato Sauce
Once the sausage and chorizo are browned, add the tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Step 4: Toss the Pasta
Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sausage and chorizo mixture. Toss the pasta until it’s well coated with the sauce and meats.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the spicy sausage pasta hot, garnished with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Cook the Meat Well: Make sure the sausage and chorizo are browned well, as this adds depth and richness to the overall flavor of the dish.
- Adjust the Heat: If you’re not a fan of spice, you can reduce the amount of chorizo or opt for a milder sausage. Taste the sauce before adding more heat.
- Add a Little Cream: For a creamier texture, you can stir in a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half when adding the tomato sauce.
- Use a Nonstick Skillet: To prevent sticking, especially when cooking the sausage, use a nonstick skillet or be sure to coat your skillet with a little oil before adding the meat.
How to Serve
This Spicy Sausage Pasta is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a few tasty sides to complete the meal:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a satisfying and indulgent side.
- Salad: Pair with a light green salad, such as a Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad, for a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the flavors of the pasta and add an extra layer of freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pasta keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
For long-term storage, you can freeze the pasta for up to 3 months. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers, making sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat on the stovetop until warmed through.
Reheating
To reheat leftover pasta, simply heat it on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra tomato sauce or water to help it loosen up. Stir occasionally until it’s heated evenly.
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.
2. Is there a substitute for chorizo?
Yes, you can use Italian sausage or even ground beef if you prefer a different flavor. However, chorizo adds a unique, smoky heat, so it’s best to keep it if possible.
3. Can I make this recipe without meat?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and chorizo and using plant-based sausage or simply adding more vegetables to create a satisfying meal.
4. How can I make this dish less spicy?
If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of chorizo or use a milder sausage. You can also omit any added chili flakes or spicy seasonings.
5. Can I add cheese to this pasta?
Absolutely! You can add some shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, or even cream cheese to make the pasta creamy and cheesy.
6. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce and sausage mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Then, just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve and combine everything.
7. Can I use homemade tomato sauce?
Yes, if you prefer homemade sauce, you can definitely use that instead of store-bought. Just make sure it’s thick and flavorful to complement the sausage and chorizo.
8. Can I freeze this pasta?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
9. Can I use ground meat instead of sliced sausage?
Yes, you can substitute ground sausage or chorizo. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding the tomato sauce.
10. What can I serve this pasta with?
Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
This Spicy Sausage Pasta recipe is the perfect combination of bold flavors and comforting pasta. It’s easy to make, and with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful, hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe will deliver a delicious and satisfying meal every time.
PrintSpicy Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A bold and flavorful dish combining spicy sausage, savory chorizo, and rich tomato sauce tossed with pasta. This quick and easy recipe packs a punch and is perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1/2 lb sausage, sliced
- 1/2 lb chorizo, cubed
- 1 cup tomato sauce
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, cook sausage and chorizo until browned.
- Add tomato sauce to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Toss cooked pasta into the skillet and mix well.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less chorizo, or even some red pepper flakes if you like extra heat.
- You can substitute the sausage and chorizo with other types of sausage, such as Italian sausage, if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes