Get ready to transform your ordinary pasta night into a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! This Spicy Penne with Chorizo and Roasted Tomato Sauce is not just a meal—it's a flavor-packed journey that combines the rich, smoky essence of chorizo with the vibrant brightness of roasted tomatoes. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 lb chorizo, sliced
- 2 cups roasted tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chorizo and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sausage to release its oils and become slightly crispy.
- Add roasted tomatoes to the skillet with chorizo, breaking them down slightly with a wooden spoon. Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce for extra heat.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer, allowing flavors to meld together for about 5-6 minutes.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the penne in a colander.
- Add drained pasta directly into the skillet with chorizo and roasted tomato sauce. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water if needed to create a smoother sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves.
- Serve immediately in warm pasta bowls, ensuring each serving has a good mix of chorizo and sauce.
Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously—it should taste like the sea to properly season your pasta from within.
- Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining; its starchy nature helps create a silkier, more cohesive sauce.
- For maximum flavor, use high-quality Spanish chorizo and fire-roasted tomatoes.
- Don't overcook the pasta—aim for al dente to maintain a perfect texture.
- Fresh basil is key: add it at the very end to preserve its bright, aromatic qualities.
- If you want extra heat, don't be shy with those red pepper flakes!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 55mg
