Spaghetti with Cream of Pepper, Chorizo, and Shrimp

This Spaghetti with Cream of Pepper, Chorizo, and Shrimp is the perfect combination of savory, creamy, and slightly spicy flavors that will quickly become a weeknight favorite. The dish starts with tender spaghetti tossed in a rich, creamy sauce made with a colorful blend of peppers, onions, and garlic. Chorizo adds a hint of smokiness and spice, while succulent shrimp give the dish a touch of elegance and texture. With just a few ingredients and 30 minutes, you can have a hearty and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a quick dinner for friends, this dish is sure to impress.

The creamy sauce, made with heavy cream, brings all the ingredients together, coating the pasta and creating a comforting, luscious texture. The addition of vibrant peppers not only adds color to the dish but also enhances the flavor profile with their natural sweetness. This recipe is a great way to enjoy shrimp and chorizo in a unique and flavorful way while still keeping it simple and quick to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

In just 30 minutes, you can prepare a full, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

2. Perfect Flavor Combination

The combination of smoky chorizo, sweet peppers, succulent shrimp, and creamy sauce creates a balanced and mouthwatering dish.

3. Versatile

You can swap out the peppers for other vegetables or add a little heat with red pepper flakes or jalapeños.

4. One-Pan Wonder

This dish is cooked in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze while still delivering maximum flavor.

5. Impressive Yet Simple

With minimal ingredients, this dish looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal, but is easy enough to make at home.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti
• Red pepper
• Yellow pepper
• Green pepper
• Onion
• Garlic
• Chorizo
• Shrimp
• Heavy cream
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

Variations

• Add Heat: For a spicier version, you can include red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chorizo with a plant-based sausage or simply use additional vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant.
• Herb Boost: Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme to elevate the flavor and freshness of the dish.
• Different Pasta: Swap the spaghetti for penne, fettuccine, or another pasta of your choice to suit your preferences.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red, yellow, and green peppers, along with the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Chorizo

Add the chorizo to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce and ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with extra herbs or grated cheese if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Shrimp Cooking Tip: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They cook quickly and should only be in the pan until they turn pink and opaque.
• Chorizo Options: Use mild or spicy chorizo depending on your taste preference. If you can’t find fresh chorizo, you can use cured chorizo, but it may require a little more cooking time.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes to the dish for added texture and flavor.
• Creamy Sauce Tip: If the sauce gets too thick, you can thin it with a little bit of pasta water or extra cream.

How to Serve

This dish is best served as a main course, and it pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For a lighter option, you can serve it with roasted or sautéed vegetables. To make the meal more indulgent, top it with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked spaghetti and sauce for up to 1-2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little cream or water to restore the sauce’s consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or linguine.

2. Can I make this dish without shrimp?

Yes, you can replace the shrimp with chicken, scallops, or even just more vegetables for a vegetarian option.

3. Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes, fresh chili peppers, or use spicy chorizo for extra heat.

4. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.

5. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but be careful not to overcook them when adding them to the pan, as they only need to be heated through.

6. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best made fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Then, combine and heat just before serving.

7. Can I use a different type of sausage?

If you prefer a milder sausage, you can substitute the chorizo with Italian sausage or chicken sausage.

8. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it longer to reduce it, or add a little more cream to achieve the desired consistency.

9. Can I use frozen peppers instead of fresh ones?

Yes, frozen peppers can be used in place of fresh ones if needed, although fresh peppers may provide a better texture.

10. Can I serve this dish cold?

While this dish is best served hot, it can be eaten cold as a pasta salad if preferred.

Conclusion

Spaghetti with Cream of Pepper, Chorizo, and Shrimp is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together vibrant peppers, savory chorizo, and tender shrimp in a creamy, comforting sauce. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Customize it with your favorite veggies or protein, and enjoy a delicious, well-rounded meal that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether served for dinner or as a lunch leftover, this dish is sure to impress every time.

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