Introduction

If you’re looking for a flavorful, satisfying, and vibrant pasta dish, this Spaghetti with Cream of Pepper, Chorizo, and Shrimp is the perfect recipe to try. The combination of tender spaghetti, spicy chorizo, succulent shrimp, and a creamy pepper sauce creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. The rich cream sauce is balanced with the sweetness of bell peppers and the heat of the chorizo, while the shrimp adds a delicate seafood touch.

This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. The peppers and onions provide a sweet and savory base, while the addition of chorizo offers a bit of smoky spice. The creaminess from the heavy cream ties everything together into a mouthwatering, indulgent dish that can be enjoyed for dinner, date nights, or even a special weekend meal.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, Spaghetti with Cream of Pepper, Chorizo, and Shrimp is a satisfying meal that offers a rich blend of flavors and a perfect balance of ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Flavorful: The combination of chorizo, shrimp, and creamy sauce creates a dish that’s full of layers of flavor.
Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table.
Comforting Yet Light: While the cream sauce adds richness, the fresh vegetables and shrimp keep the dish light and fresh.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap shrimp for other seafood or chicken, and customize the peppers or seasonings to your preference.
Perfect for Any Occasion: This dish works well for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or a cozy family meal.

Ingredients

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

Variations

Swap the Meat: If you prefer, you can replace the chorizo with Italian sausage, bacon, or chicken for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the chorizo and shrimp for a vegetarian version. You can add additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to fill in the void.
Different Pasta: If you’re not a fan of spaghetti, feel free to use other types of pasta like fettuccine, penne, or linguine for a fun twist.
Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme can be added at the end for extra flavor.
Spicy Kick: For more heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red, yellow, and green peppers, along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.

Step 3: Cook the Chorizo

Add the chorizo to the skillet with the peppers and onions. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, allowing it to brown and release its flavorful oils. Cook for about 5 minutes until the chorizo is fully cooked and slightly crispy.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.

Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce doesn’t burn.

Step 6: Combine with Spaghetti

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide a better flavor and texture than frozen shrimp, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the skillet to avoid overcooking.
Pasta Water: Keep a cup of pasta water before draining. It’s great for adjusting the consistency of the sauce, especially if it’s too thick.
Cream Substitutes: If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative, but the texture will be slightly less rich.

How to Serve

Serve this Spaghetti with Cream of Pepper, Chorizo, and Shrimp in large pasta bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of freshness. Pair it with a side of garlic bread and a light salad for a complete meal. This dish also pairs well with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate when frozen. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftover pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to help bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use fettuccine, penne, or linguine as alternatives to spaghetti for this dish.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time—chop the peppers, onions, and garlic, and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

3. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but be sure to add them at the end of cooking to just warm them through. Avoid overcooking them.

4. Can I substitute chorizo with something else?

Yes, you can use sausage, chicken, or bacon instead of chorizo for a different flavor profile.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.

6. Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute light cream or half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce may be a bit thinner and less rich.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, this recipe is not gluten-free due to the spaghetti. However, you can substitute gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

8. How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

To prevent curdling, make sure the heat is on medium-low and don’t let the cream boil. Stir it frequently and add a bit of pasta water if needed.

9. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to this recipe for extra flavor and texture.

10. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chorizo and shrimp, and adding more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Conclusion

Spaghetti with Cream of Pepper, Chorizo, and Shrimp is a delightful and rich pasta dish that combines the best of smoky, spicy chorizo with tender shrimp and a creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s a quick and easy recipe that delivers big on taste and is sure to satisfy your cravings for something comforting yet exciting. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a weekend treat, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a hearty, flavorful meal!