Name: Creamy Chorizo and Prawn Pasta: 20-Minute Delightfulness
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 250 grams Penne Pasta (or any pasta shape); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (light olive oil for sautéing); 1 medium Onion (finely diced); 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (diced); 200 grams Chorizo (ready-diced); 400 grams Passata (or canned tomatoes); 100 ml Double Cream (or crème fraîche); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; a handful Fresh Basil Leaves (torn for garnish); 300 grams Cooked Jumbo King Prawns (pre-cooked)

As the clock ticks towards dinner time, I find myself in a mini crisis—a growling stomach and a fridge that feels less than inspiring. Enter my savior: Easy Chorizo and Prawn Pasta. Within just 20 minutes, this quick recipe transforms a handful of ingredients into a luscious dish that marries the spice of chorizo with the succulence of juicy prawns. It’s not only a crowd-pleaser that the family will love, but also a guilt-free way to indulge in homemade goodness, leaving fast food in the dust. Just imagine creamy pasta enveloped in a rich sauce, ready at a moment’s notice! What’s your favorite quick fix when time is tight?

Why Choose This Chorizo and Prawn Pasta?

Simplicity at its Best: In just 20 minutes, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory chorizo and juicy prawns brings a burst of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.

Versatile: Feel free to switch up the pasta type or even the protein! Chicken or a vegetarian option like tofu works beautifully too.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for all occasions, this dish makes for a fantastic family meal or an impressive gathering option.

Quick and Easy: When life gets busy, this recipe saves you from resorting to takeout while still providing a homemade touch that beats fast food.

Don’t forget to check out other options like my delightful Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole for another easy midweek meal!

Creamy Chorizo and Prawn Pasta Ingredients

• Perfect for a quick homemade meal!

For the Pasta
• Penne Pasta – The ideal base for the creamy sauce, though any pasta shape like fusilli or spaghetti works well too.

For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Use light olive oil for sautéing to keep the flavors balanced.
• Onion – A medium onion, finely diced, adds essential sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Red Bell Pepper – Diced for color and freshness, enhancing the visual appeal of your creamy chorizo and prawn pasta.
• Chorizo – Ready-diced chorizo adds spice and richness without the fuss.
• Passata – This tomato puree forms the delicious sauce base; canned tomatoes can be a suitable substitute if needed.
• Double Cream (Heavy Cream) – An essential component that gives the sauce its dreamy creaminess; feel free to swap it out for a lighter version or crème fraîche.
• Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings to bring everything together.
• Fresh Basil Leaves – For a lovely aroma and garnish, enhancing the dish’s freshness; dried can be used in smaller amounts in a pinch.

For the Protein
• Cooked Jumbo King Prawns – Ensure they are pre-cooked for a quick and easy protein addition, bringing texture to the dish.

This easy chorizo and prawn pasta is ready to make your midweek meal a delightful experience in under 20 minutes, combining flavor and convenience into one delicious dish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Chorizo and Prawn Pasta

Step 1: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions for about 10-12 minutes until al dente. Taste a piece for the perfect balance between firm and tender, then drain the pasta while reserving a cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large saucepan, heat about 2 tablespoons of light olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté, covered, for 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper and ready-diced chorizo, cooking for an additional 3 minutes until the chorizo is crispy and the pepper is tender.

Step 3: Make Sauce
Pour in the passata, stirring thoroughly to combine with the sautéed vegetables and chorizo. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, letting it bubble for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening and the flavors intensifying, creating a lovely base for your creamy chorizo and prawn pasta.

Step 4: Finish Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the cooked jumbo prawns and double cream. Heat the mixture for 2 minutes, allowing it to warm through without boiling again. The sauce will become rich and creamy, perfectly coating the prawns and creating a luscious texture that your family will adore.

Step 5: Combine
Add the drained pasta directly into the creamy chorizo and prawn sauce. Toss everything together using a pair of tongs or a large spatula until the pasta is well coated and every piece is swaddled in the rich sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, gradually incorporate a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, tear fresh basil leaves and stir them gently into the creamy chorizo and prawn pasta for a pop of color and aroma. Spoon the pasta onto plates or into bowls, making sure to include plenty of sauce. Be ready to enjoy this delightful dish that’s perfect for your midweek meals!

What to Serve with Easy Chorizo and Prawn Pasta

Imagine a comforting meal that tantalizes your taste buds while creating a beautiful dining experience!

Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread perfectly complements the creamy sauce, adding crunch and flavor with each bite. It’s a delightful side that never disappoints.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette brings a bright contrast to the richness of the pasta, adding layers of texture and a burst of nutrition. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumber for an extra crunch!
Roasted Vegetables: Serve a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots. Their caramelized sweetness pairs beautifully with the spicy chorizo, rounding out this vibrant meal.
White Wine: A chilled glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, elevates the dining experience while balancing out the richness of the dish with its crisp acidity. Perfect for unwinding after a long day!
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, light and refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after a hearty meal. Its tangy flavor is the perfect way to finish your culinary adventure.
Dessert Wine: Indulge in a sweet dessert wine, like a Moscato, which adds a delightful sweetness that complements the savory notes of the meal, leaving everyone satisfied and cheerful.

Storage Tips for Creamy Chorizo and Prawn Pasta

Fridge: Store leftover creamy chorizo and prawn pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in individual portions for up to 1 month. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the pasta out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure safety and quality.

Variations & Substitutions for Chorizo and Prawn Pasta

Feel free to let your creativity shine and tailor this dish to your taste and dietary needs!

Protein Swap: Substitute chorizo with smoked sausage or tofu for a different twist, keeping the dish deliciously hearty. Both options can offer a unique flavor profile, making the dish your own.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate additional vegetables like fresh spinach or zucchini to add nutrition and color to your pasta. Not only will this enhance the dish, but it will also add a lovely texture while creating a rainbow on your plate.
Dairy-Free: Replace double cream with coconut cream or dairy-free alternatives for a lighter, vegan-friendly version. This will maintain that luscious creaminess while accommodating different dietary preferences.
Heat Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat, igniting a flavor explosion! This simple addition can elevate your pasta and surprise your taste buds with a delightful kick.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or cilantro instead of basil for a fresh twist. Each herb lends a distinct flavor, allowing you to customize the taste profile to your liking.
Citrus Zing: Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving to brighten the flavors and give the sauce a refreshing lift. This bright addition can transform your creamy sauce into a refreshing culinary experience.

If you enjoy exploring with quick recipes, don’t miss my Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole or try the comforting Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta for another delightful meal option!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Chorizo and Prawn Pasta preparations are perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence! You can prep the sauce (without the prawns and cream) up to 24 hours in advance by sautéing the onions, red peppers, and chorizo, then adding the passata and letting it cool before refrigerating. Additionally, cook the pasta and keep it in the fridge, separate from the sauce, for about 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, stir in the cream and pre-cooked prawns, and then combine it with the pasta. This way, your dinner will taste just as delicious but save you precious time in the kitchen!

Expert Tips for Creamy Chorizo and Prawn Pasta

Pasta Perfection: Cook your penne pasta al dente to ensure it holds up well in the creamy sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and unappetizing.
Chorizo Choice: Use ready-diced chorizo for convenience or slice your own to control the size and cut, ensuring even cooking.
Prawn Wisdom: Avoid overcooking the prawns because they’re pre-cooked; heating them too long can make them rubbery.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired texture for your creamy chorizo and prawn pasta.
Freshness Matters: Adding torn basil just before serving enhances flavor and presentation. Fresh herbs can take this dish to the next level!

Creamy Chorizo and Prawn Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of chorizo should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend ready-diced chorizo for convenience, as it saves you time. If you prefer, you can slice your own to control the size and ensure even cooking. Look for chorizo that feels firmer and has a vibrant red color—this guarantees a richer flavor for your creamy chorizo and prawn pasta.

How do I store leftovers?
To keep your creamy chorizo and prawn pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat to avoid overcooking the prawns, which should remain tender and juicy.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze creamy chorizo and prawn pasta! Place the cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to maintain its creamy texture.

Is the recipe suitable for people with allergies or dietary restrictions?
While creamy chorizo and prawn pasta is not vegetarian, you can absolutely adapt it for dietary concerns! For a vegetarian version, substitute chorizo with smoked sausage or tofu. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your specific needs, especially if allergies are a concern.

How can I tell when my prawns are cooked correctly?
The key to perfectly cooked prawns is not to overheat them. Since they’re already pre-cooked, you simply need to warm them through gently for about 1-2 minutes once added to the sauce. They should be pink and opaque without any rubbery texture—a sign that they’re ready to enjoy in your creamy chorizo and prawn pasta!