Spaghetti with Pepper Cream, Chorizo & Shrimp
Ready in 35 minutes | Serves 4
A luxurious yet quick pasta dish that combines smoky chorizo, tender shrimp, and a velvety pepper-infused cream sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels gourmet!
Ingredients:
8 oz spaghetti (or linguine/fettuccine)
½ lb raw shrimp, peeled & deveined (size 26/30 recommended)
½ lb chorizo sausage, casings removed & crumbled
1 tbsp olive oil
½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
½ yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
½ onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
Salt & black pepper to taste
Chopped parsley or basil (for garnish)
Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente (about 8–10 mins). Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2️⃣ Brown the Chorizo:
In a large skillet, cook chorizo over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces, until crispy (~5 mins). Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Sear the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, heat olive oil. Add shrimp, sprinkle with smoked paprika, and cook 2–3 mins per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
4️⃣ Sauté the Veggies:
Add bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Cook 4–5 mins until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 secs until fragrant.
5️⃣ Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan, stirring until cheese melts. Simmer 2–3 mins until slightly thickened. Season with salt & pepper.
6️⃣ Combine Everything:
Toss in cooked pasta, chorizo, and shrimp, coating evenly with sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen.
7️⃣ Serve & Garnish:
Top with extra Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (if using).
🔥 Pro Tips:
✔ Spice it up: Add ½ tsp cayenne or a diced jalapeño with the peppers.
✔ Extra richness: Stir in 1 tbsp butter at the end for glossy sauce.
✔ Seafood swap: Replace shrimp with scallops or mussels.
✔ Make it creamy without cream: Use cream cheese + pasta water for a lighter option.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
✅ Bold flavors – Smoky chorizo & sweet shrimp balance perfectly.
✅ Restaurant-worthy in 35 mins – Faster than takeout!
✅ Versatile – Swap proteins or veggies based on what’s in your fridge.
Pair with: A crisp green salad and garlic bread. 🥖
Want More?
Let me know if you’d like:
A spicy arrabbiata version 🌶️
A lighter, lemon-garlic shrimp pasta 🍋
Or a vegetarian twist with mushrooms & sun-dried tomatoes!
Enjoy your meal! 🍝✨