This Easy One-Pot Mac and Chorizo Dinner is a tasty and simple meal! It combines creamy macaroni with spicy chorizo, all made in just one pot. Less mess? Yes, please!
I love how quickly this dish comes together, and the chorizo gives it a kick that makes dinner exciting. Plus, who can resist cheesy pasta? It’s a win-win for weeknight meals! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chorizo: This spicy sausage adds tons of flavor. If you’re looking for a milder version, turkey chorizo works well. You can even use ground beef or sausage if chorizo isn’t available.
Macaroni: Traditional elbow macaroni is perfect for this dish, but you can swap it for any pasta you have, like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options.
Chicken Broth: While chicken broth enhances the flavor, vegetable broth can be a good alternative for a vegetarian option or if you have no chicken broth at hand. Just adjust the seasoning based on the broth used.
Creamy Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for that sharp kick! However, you can mix it up with Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different flavor. Use dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked in One Pot?
Cooking pasta in one pot can seem tricky. The key is to monitor the heat and stir occasionally. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Start on medium heat to brown the chorizo and sauté the onions well. This builds flavor.
- When you add the liquid, make sure it covers the pasta; this helps it cook evenly.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time! Follow the package instructions for the pasta but aim to check for doneness a minute or two early to avoid overcooking.
- After simmering, if there’s still too much liquid, let it cook a minute or two longer on low heat without the lid until it thickens nicely.
With these tips, your mac and chorizo will turn out delicious every time!
Easy One-Pot Mac and Chorizo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 8 oz (225g) chorizo sausage, casing removed and sliced or crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups macaroni pasta (uncooked)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This one-pot mac and chorizo dinner takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 15-20 minutes of cook time. So, you can enjoy a delicious meal in around 30-35 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chorizo:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced or crumbled chorizo. Cook it for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns brown and releases its tasty oils. This will generously flavor the dish!
2. Add the Aromatics:
Next, add the chopped onion to the pot and cook it for about 3 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. You want the garlic to become fragrant but not burnt!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour in the uncooked macaroni, chicken broth, and milk. Stir everything together well, and don’t forget to season it with the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Mix in the Cheese:
After cooking, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce. It should look deliciously cheesy!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your mac and chorizo a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. This is the time to make it just right for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your creamy mac and chorizo with some chopped fresh parsley or chives if you like. Serve it hot and enjoy this comforting, cheesy goodness!
Your easy one-pot mac and chorizo dinner is ready to delight your taste buds! Happy eating! 🎉
FAQ for Easy One-Pot Mac and Chorizo Dinner
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While chorizo adds a great kick, you can substitute it with any type of sausage you prefer, such as Italian sausage or turkey sausage. Just adjust the seasoning if needed based on the sausage’s flavor profile.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chorizo and replace it with a combination of additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain the flavor!
Can I Reheat Leftovers? How Should I Store Them?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it seems too thick.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This mac and chorizo dinner is a complete meal on its own, but if you’d like side dishes, consider serving it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the pasta!
