A delightful twist on a classic dish, combining spicy chorizo with creamy baked pasta.
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Using a good quality olive oil enhances the flavor of the dish.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until fragrant.
Stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
Stir in the paprika and cayenne, cooking for another minute.
This step helps to release the flavors of the spices.
Add the chorizo sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
Ensure the chorizo is evenly browned for the best flavor.
Pour in the tomato sauce, sweetcorn, dried basil, sugar, and salt. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Meanwhile, cook the macaroni in boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
Rinsing the pasta stops the cooking process and prevents sticking.
Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and mix well.
Ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with grated cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Adding fresh herbs as a garnish enhances the presentation and flavor.