If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with bold flavors yet comes together faster than you can say “dinner’s ready,” the 15 Minute Sausage, Chorizo, Sun Dried Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta is exactly what you need. This recipe combines savory sausage and spicy chorizo with the rich tang of sun-dried tomatoes and the creamy melt of mozzarella, delivering a vibrant and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. Every bite is a celebration of classic Italian-inspired flavors with a quick and easy twist.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Speedy Satisfaction: Ready in just 15 minutes, this pasta lets you enjoy a wholesome meal quickly without sacrificing flavor.
- Flavor Powerhouse: The combination of sausage, chorizo, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella creates a bold, layered taste experience.
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Impact: Simple, everyday pantry staples come together to create a stunning dish everyone will adore.
- Comfort Food with a Twist: This recipe elevates classic pasta with exciting ingredients that keep it fresh and fun.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or casual entertaining, this pasta fits the bill effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Using straightforward, quality ingredients is the secret to this 15 Minute Sausage, Chorizo, Sun Dried Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta standing out. Each item plays a crucial role, enhancing the dish with a balance of savory, spicy, tangy, and creamy elements.
- Sausage: Choose your favorite Italian or spicy sausage for hearty, meaty flavor and texture.
- Chorizo: Adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick that elevates the pasta to a new level.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Their concentrated, sweet-tart richness injects depth and color.
- Mozzarella: Fresh or shredded, this cheese melts beautifully and adds creaminess with every bite.
- Pasta: Penne or rigatoni works great here, soaking up the sauce perfectly and offering a satisfying chew.
- Olive Oil: A quality extra virgin olive oil enriches the dish with fruity undertones and helps meld flavors.
- Garlic: Provides aromatic warmth and enhances the overall savory profile.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: A sprinkle at the end brightens the dish and adds a fresh herbal touch.
- Salt and Pepper: Perfectly season to taste and bring all the flavors into harmony.
Variations for 15 Minute Sausage, Chorizo, Sun Dried Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta
One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is to customize based on what you love or what you have on hand. Feel free to adapt the ingredients to suit dietary preferences or to add your own signature flair.
- Vegetarian Swap: Replace meats with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant for a satisfying meatless option.
- Spice Level Adjustments: Use milder sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes to amp up or tone down the heat.
- Cheese Choices: Try burrata or feta in place of mozzarella for a different creamy dimension.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Extra Veggies: Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and vibrant color.
How to Make 15 Minute Sausage, Chorizo, Sun Dried Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Begin by boiling salted water and cooking your choice of pasta (penne recommended) according to package instructions for al dente, usually about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Chorizo
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble in the sausage and diced chorizo, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. This step brings out rich, robust flavors.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Next, toss in minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sausage mixture. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, allowing their flavors to meld perfectly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet, stirring to coat it with the sausage, chorizo, garlic, and tomato mixture. Sprinkle mozzarella over the top and stir gently, letting the cheese melt into the warm pasta. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs
Turn off heat, then stir in chopped fresh basil or parsley for a cool, fresh finish. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and your dish is ready to serve.
Pro Tips for Making 15 Minute Sausage, Chorizo, Sun Dried Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta
- Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for fresh, flavorful sausage varieties for the best taste impact.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce—its starch helps bind flavors beautifully.
- Don’t Overcook Cheese: Add mozzarella just at the end to avoid over-melting and losing texture.
- Use Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil: Tomatoes packed in oil add an extra layer of richness to the sauce.
- Cook Meat on Medium Heat: This ensures even browning without burning or drying out the sausage and chorizo.
How to Serve 15 Minute Sausage, Chorizo, Sun Dried Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a handful of torn basil leaves, or a drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze lifts this pasta beautifully, adding color, texture, and an extra flavor kick.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty pasta with a simple mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, crusty garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that satisfies on every level.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this pasta in shallow bowls topped with a mozzarella ball or a dollop of ricotta, then add a scattering of toasted pine nuts or chili flakes for visual appeal and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover 15 Minute Sausage, Chorizo, Sun Dried Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
This pasta freezes well when properly sealed. Use a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or olive oil to restore creaminess and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni work wonderfully, farfalle, fusilli, or even spaghetti can be used depending on your preference or pantry availability.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the sausage and chorizo, and replace them with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based sausage alternative to keep the dish flavorful and hearty.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can pre-cook the sausage and chorizo and store them separately. Assemble and cook the pasta just before serving for best taste and texture.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
If sun-dried tomatoes aren’t available, use roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes sautéed until soft for a different but tasty twist.
How spicy is this dish with chorizo?
The spiciness depends on the type of chorizo used; Spanish chorizo tends to be smoky and mild, while Mexican chorizo is often spicier. Adjust accordingly to your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
This 15 Minute Sausage, Chorizo, Sun Dried Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta is more than just a quick meal; it’s a flavorful hug in a bowl that brings warmth, comfort, and satisfaction to your dinner table in no time. It’s easy to whip up, packed with layers of taste, and flexible enough to customize. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy a delicious dish crafted to please any palate!
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15 Minute Sausage, Chorizo, Sun Dried Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Contains meat and dairy
Description
A quick and flavorful pasta recipe that combines savory sausage, smoky chorizo, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests, this Italian-inspired dish delivers bold, comforting flavors with minimal ingredients and maximum taste.
Ingredients
Meats
- Sausage: 200g (Italian or spicy sausage, crumbled)
- Chorizo: 100g (diced)
Produce & Herbs
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 100g, chopped (preferably in oil)
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
Dairy
- Mozzarella: 150g (fresh or shredded)
Pantry Items
- Pasta: 250g (penne or rigatoni recommended)
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp (extra virgin)
- Salt: to taste
- Black Pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water and cooking your choice of pasta (penne recommended) according to package instructions for al dente, usually about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
- Cook the Sausage and Chorizo: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble in the sausage and diced chorizo, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. This step brings out rich, robust flavors.
- Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Next, toss in minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sausage mixture. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, allowing their flavors to meld perfectly.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet, stirring to coat it with the sausage, chorizo, garlic, and tomato mixture. Sprinkle mozzarella over the top and stir gently, letting the cheese melt into the warm pasta. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Turn off heat, then stir in chopped fresh basil or parsley for a cool, fresh finish. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and your dish is ready to serve.
Notes
- Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for fresh, flavorful sausage varieties for the best taste impact.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce—its starch helps bind flavors beautifully.
- Don’t Overcook Cheese: Add mozzarella just at the end to avoid over-melting and losing texture.
- Use Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil: Tomatoes packed in oil add an extra layer of richness to the sauce.
- Cook Meat on Medium Heat: This ensures even browning without burning or drying out the sausage and chorizo.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg