Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the most explosive pasta dish you'll make this week! This Fresh Chorizo Pasta Bocconcini is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that will transform your ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience. Imagine spicy, crispy chorizo mingling with creamy bocconcini cheese, bursting cherry tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil, all perfectly tossed with al dente penne. This Mexican-inspired recipe is so irresistible, it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds before they've even finished their first bite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb fresh chorizo, casing removed
- 1 cup bocconcini cheese, halved
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the fresh chorizo, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chorizo is browned and cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the chorizo is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until they start to soften and release their juices.
- When the pasta is ready, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the chorizo and tomatoes. Toss everything together to combine well. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the bocconcini cheese and chopped fresh basil. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese and release the flavors of the basil.
- Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Serve the Fresh Chorizo Pasta Bocconcini warm, garnished with extra basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- • For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality chorizo and ensure it's browned nicely before adding other ingredients. • Reserve some pasta water before draining—its starchy goodness helps create a silky sauce and helps ingredients stick together. • Don't overcook the bocconcini; add it at the end so it just slightly melts and becomes creamy. • Use fresh basil if possible, as it adds a bright, aromatic touch to the dish. • For a spicier version, choose a hot chorizo or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. • Serve immediately to enjoy the cheese at its most melty and the pasta at its perfect temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 110mg
