Spaghetti with Pepper Cream, Chorizo & Shrimp

Let me introduce you to a pasta dish that’s got everything: bold flavors, creamy sauce, a little heat, and juicy seafood. Spaghetti with Pepper Cream, Chorizo & Shrimp is what happens when spicy, savory, and silky all come together in one dreamy forkful. You’ve got tender spaghetti tangled up in a rich peppery cream sauce, smoky bits of chorizo bringing the heat, and perfectly cooked shrimp adding that luxurious, ocean-kissed touch. It’s indulgent but still fresh—and totally unforgettable.

This isn’t your everyday pasta night. This is the kind of dish that makes you pause after the first bite, maybe close your eyes a little, and say, “Oh wow.” Trust me, you’re going to want seconds.

Why You’ll Love Spaghetti with Pepper Cream, Chorizo & Shrimp

This dish doesn’t just taste amazing—it’s a full-on experience. Here’s why it’s about to become a new favorite:

Bold and Balanced: The smoky, spicy kick from the chorizo balances beautifully with the creamy pepper sauce and delicate sweetness of the shrimp.

Date-Night Worthy, Weeknight Easy: It looks and tastes fancy, but it comes together quickly with simple steps. Perfect for when you want to impress—without the stress.

Versatile & Customizable: You can dial the heat up or down, swap the protein, or even use a different pasta shape depending on what’s in your pantry.

One Skillet Wonder: Less mess, more flavor. A lot of the cooking happens in one pan, so clean-up is a breeze.

Comfort Meets Elegance: It’s cozy and indulgent, but with that touch of refinement from the shrimp and the creamy pepper sauce. Basically, the best of both worlds.

Ingredients in Spaghetti with Pepper Cream, Chorizo & Shrimp

This flavor-packed pasta is built on a handful of powerhouse ingredients.

Spaghetti

A classic choice that soaks up the sauce and twirls beautifully on your fork. Any long pasta will do in a pinch.

Chorizo

Smoky, spicy, and full of rich flavor. Spanish-style cured chorizo adds texture and intensity, while Mexican chorizo brings a softer, spicier kick.

Shrimp

Plump, juicy shrimp add a sweet, tender bite that balances out the heat of the chorizo. Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work great.

Bell Peppers

Roasted or sautéed, these bring sweetness and a pop of color to the dish. Red, orange, or yellow are best for that mellow, roasted flavor.

Heavy Cream

The base of that luscious sauce. It tempers the heat and binds all the flavors together into silky perfection.

Garlic

Because what’s a good pasta without a little garlic magic?

Parmesan Cheese

Optional—but adds salty, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce just right.

Olive Oil

Used to sauté and bring everything together with that signature Mediterranean richness.

Salt, Black Pepper, Crushed Red Pepper (optional)

Season to taste and adjust the heat level however you like.

Instructions

Let’s bring this flavorful pasta masterpiece to life!

Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chorizo

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the diced chorizo and cook until slightly crispy and the oil is tinted red with flavor—about 4–5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving the flavorful oil behind.

Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the chorizo.

Make the Pepper Cream Sauce

Add a little more oil if needed, then sauté the garlic and bell peppers until soft and fragrant. Pour in the cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan (if using), and season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper for heat.

Combine Everything

Return the chorizo and shrimp to the skillet. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate the pasta and top with a little extra Parmesan or freshly ground black pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approx. 550–650 (varies with cream and chorizo type)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Spaghetti with Pepper Cream, Chorizo & Shrimp

This dish is rich and flavorful on its own, but if you want to round it out:

• Crusty Bread: Use it to soak up every last drop of that peppery cream sauce.
• Simple Side Salad: A lemony arugula or mixed greens salad adds a bright contrast to the richness.
• White Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio balances the cream and spice beautifully.
• Lemon Wedges: A little fresh citrus really makes the shrimp pop.

Additional Tips

• Adjust the Heat: Use mild chorizo or less red pepper if you want it gentler. Or turn it up with extra spice!
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook fast—just until pink and firm to the touch.
• Use Roasted Peppers: For even deeper flavor, try using jarred roasted bell peppers instead of sautéing fresh.
• Add Greens: A handful of spinach or arugula stirred in at the end adds a lovely fresh touch.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A1: This dish is best fresh, but you can prep the chorizo and shrimp in advance and reheat gently before tossing with the pasta.

Q2: What can I substitute for chorizo?
A2: Try spicy Italian sausage, andouille, or even smoked turkey sausage for a different twist.

Q3: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A3: Definitely! Linguine, fettuccine, or even penne would work well—just use what you have on hand.

Q4: Is there a dairy-free option?
A4: You can swap the cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. It’ll change the flavor slightly, but still be delicious.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.

Conclusion

Spaghetti with Pepper Cream, Chorizo & Shrimp is what happens when comfort food meets bold flavor and a touch of elegance. It’s the kind of pasta dish that satisfies every craving—rich, spicy, creamy, and totally soul-soothing. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just treating yourself to something special, this one’s a keeper. So pour yourself a glass of wine, twirl up a big forkful, and enjoy every bite—you earned this.

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