Description

A rich and flavorful Chorizo Mac and Cheese combining smoky fresh chorizo sausage, creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce, and tender cavatappi pasta for a comforting, elevated twist on classic mac and cheese.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

2 1/2 cups dried cavatappi or any swirled pasta

Chorizo Mixture

1 pound fresh chorizo sausage (casings removed)
1 green bell pepper (diced)

Cheese Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
2 1/2 cups freshly grated extra sharp cheddar cheese
Kosher salt (to taste)

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Brown Chorizo: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the fresh chorizo sausage, breaking it into pieces with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks.
Cook Bell Pepper: Add the diced green bell pepper to the skillet with the chorizo and cook until the peppers soften. Transfer the cooked chorizo and peppers to a large bowl and set aside.
Make Roux and Cheese Sauce: Return the skillet to medium-high heat and melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 30 seconds to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add Cheese: Stir in the grated extra sharp cheddar cheese and kosher salt. Mix until all the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.
Combine Chorizo Mixture: Add the reserved chorizo and bell peppers back into the cheese sauce and toss to combine evenly. Season with additional salt if needed.
Mix with Pasta: Carefully fold in the cooked pasta into the cheese and chorizo mixture, making sure everything is evenly coated.
Serve: Divide the chorizo mac and cheese into bowls and serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

Chorizo mac and cheese is smoky, packed with flavor, and just as cheesy and creamy as classic versions, making it a perfect elevated comfort food.
Removing the casings from the fresh chorizo helps it cook evenly and breaks up nicely in the skillet.
Using extra sharp cheddar cheese provides a bold flavor that balances the smoky chorizo well.
Be sure not to overcook the pasta to maintain a nice texture when combined with the creamy sauce.
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (331 grams)
Calories: 717 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: Approximately 600 mg
Fat: 47 g
Saturated Fat: 28 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0.2 g
Carbohydrates: 37 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 34 g
Cholesterol: 173 mg