Spicy Pesto Chorizo Pasta Bake
Spicy Pesto Chorizo Pasta Bake
This rich and flavorful bake introduces a delightful Spanish flair to your dinner table. It features al dente pasta enveloped in a creamy tomato and vibrant pesto sauce, generously studded with spicy chorizo crumbles. The entire dish is baked to golden perfection, boasting a bubbly topping of melted mozzarella and sharp Parmesan cheese. The bright, herbaceous pesto beautifully cuts through the richness of the savory chorizo and decadent cheese, creating an irresistible aroma and a perfectly balanced taste that promises a deeply satisfying meal. Ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional pasta bakes, making it an impressive yet approachable family favorite.
- Preparation time
- 20 min
- Cooking time
- 35 min
- Total time
- 55 min
- Servings
- 4
Instructions
Preparation
- 1Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- 2Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Assembly & Baking
- 1Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or a separate large pan over medium-high heat. Add the crumbled chorizo and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chorizo with a slotted spoon, leaving some fat in the pan.
- 2Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and smooth, creating a creamy sauce. Add the pesto and mix well.
- 4Return the cooked chorizo to the sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 5If using a separate pan, transfer the pasta mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- 6Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
- Calories
- 851 kcal
- Protein
- 35 g
- Fat
- 46 g
- Carbs
- 75 g
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 851 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Fat | 46 g |
| Carbs | 75 g |
Tips
- If you prefer a milder flavor, Italian sausage can be used as a delicious alternative to chorizo, offering a different but equally comforting profile.
- Serve this hearty pasta bake with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.