If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing an authentic Argentine barbecue (asado), there’s one iconic dish you simply can’t miss: Choripán. This legendary street food combines juicy, smoky grilled chorizo, crusty toasted bread, vibrant herb chimichurri, and fresh salsa criolla into a sandwich that’s delightfully simple yet packed with unforgettable South American flavor.
While Argentina is world-famous for its premium cuts of beef, locals will tell you that every great asado begins with Choripán. Served right off the grill as an appetizer or quick lunch, it brings family and friends together with minimal fuss and maximum taste.
Quick Answer: Choripán is an Argentine grilled sandwich made with fresh pork chorizo, crusty French or baguette rolls, and topped with authentic garlic-parsley chimichurri and diced salsa criolla. Ready in 35–40 minutes!
Authentic Argentine Choripán
Equipment
- Outdoor grill or cast-iron grill pan
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Wire whisk
- Grill tongs
Ingredients
Choripán
- 4 Fresh Argentine-style chorizo sausages Fresh Italian sausage or bratwurst may be substituted
- 4 Crusty sandwich rolls or small French baguettes
Chimichurri
- 1 cup Fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Dried oregano
- 1 tsp Red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp Red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper To taste
Salsa Criolla
- 1 medium Red onion, diced
- 1 large Ripe tomato, diced
- 1/2 Red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Red wine vinegar
- Salt and black pepper To taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chimichurri by combining the parsley, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir well and let it rest for at least 20 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine the diced red onion, tomato, red bell pepper, parsley, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Preheat a grill or cast-iron grill pan to medium heat (350°F / 175°C). Grill the chorizo sausages for 15 to 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Do not pierce the sausage casings.
- Slice the rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Toast the cut sides on the grill for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly crisp.
- For traditional mariposa style, slice each cooked sausage lengthwise and briefly sear the cut side on the grill for about 1 minute.
- Place one grilled sausage inside each toasted roll. Top generously with chimichurri and salsa criolla. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Is Choripán?
The name Choripán is a portmanteau of its two main ingredients: Chorizo (sausage) + Pan (bread).
Unlike Spanish chorizo (which is cured and dried), Argentine chorizo is fresh, uncooked pork and beef sausage seasoned with garlic, paprika, and mild spices. In Argentina, Choripán is the star of football stadium concessions, street food carts, outdoor festivals, and weekend backyard gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Argentine Choripán Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why Choripán has become one of Argentina’s most popular foods.
- Ready in under 40 minutes
- Perfect for grilling season
- Beginner-friendly
- Bursting with authentic South American flavors
- Easy to customize
- Great for parties and outdoor gatherings
Unlike many elaborate barbecue recipes, Choripán focuses on fresh ingredients rather than complicated techniques.
Ingredients & Substitutions needed for Argentine Choripán Recipe
| Component | Essential Ingredients | Best Substitutes / Notes |
| Sausage & Bread | 4 Argentine-style fresh chorizos 4 crusty sandwich rolls or French baguettes | Italian mild sausage or fresh bratwurst (if Argentine chorizo is unavailable). Use crusty rolls with a soft interior. |
| Fresh Chimichurri | 1 cup flat-leaf parsley (chopped) 3 garlic cloves (minced) 2 tbsp dried oregano 1 tsp red pepper flakes 2 tbsp red wine vinegar ½ cup extra virgin olive oil Salt & black pepper | Do not substitute dried parsley for fresh! Red wine vinegar gives the essential classic acidity. |
| Salsa Criolla | 1 red onion (diced) 1 ripe tomato (diced) ½ red bell pepper (diced) 2 tbsp olive oil & 1 tbsp vinegar | Dice all ingredients evenly for a colorful, fresh crunch. |
GRILL ESSENTIAL: Ensure even searing and gorgeous grill marks on your sausages using a Heavy-Duty Cast Iron Grill PressHeavy-Duty Cast Iron Grill Press.
Kitchen Equipment Needed for Argentine Choripán Recipe
Outdoor charcoal/gas grill OR heavy indoor cast-iron grill pan
Sharp chef’s knife & cutting board
Stainless steel grill tongs
Mixing bowls & wire whisk
INDOOR COOKING TIP: Don’t have an outdoor grill? Get authentic smoky sear marks on your stove using a Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Square Grill Pan.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Argentine Choripán Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Herb Chimichurri
In a medium bowl, combine finely chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it rest at room temperature for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Make the Salsa Criolla
In a separate bowl, toss together diced red onion, tomato, red bell pepper, fresh parsley, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Cover and chill in the refrigerator until serving time.
Step 3: Grill the Chorizo Sausages
Heat your outdoor grill or stove-top grill pan to medium heat (350°F / 175°C). Place sausages on the grates and grill for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs until browned on all sides and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Important: Never pierce the sausage casings with a fork while grilling! Piercing lets all the tender, flavorful juices escape, resulting in dry sausage.
PRO TIP: Guarantee perfectly juicy sausages without overcooking using an ultra-fast Digital Instant-Read Meat Thermometer.
Step 4: Toast the Rolls & Butterfly the Sausage (Mariposa Style)
Slice your bread rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through (butterfly cut). Place cut-side down on the grill for 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted. For traditional street-vendor style (a la mariposa), slice each cooked sausage down the middle lengthwise and sear the flat inside on the grill for 60 seconds.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Place a grilled sausage into each toasted roll. Spoon generous helpings of chimichurri and fresh salsa criolla over the top. Serve immediately while hot and crispy!
See how to make this Argentine Choripán Recipe in the video below.
Homemade Chimichurri Tips
Authentic chimichurri shouldn’t be blended into a smooth sauce.
For the best texture:
- Finely chop the herbs by hand.
- Use fresh garlic.
- Let the sauce rest before serving.
- Adjust the chili flakes to your preferred spice level.
The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes.
Salsa Criolla: The Perfect Fresh Topping
Salsa Criolla adds brightness and balance to the rich sausage.
For the freshest flavor:
- Dice all vegetables evenly.
- Use ripe tomatoes.
- Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning just before serving.
Expert Tips for Authentic Choripán
Want your Choripán to taste like one from an Argentine grill?
- Choose fresh, uncured Argentine-style chorizo if available.
- Grill over charcoal for authentic smoky flavor.
- Don’t overcook the sausage.
- Toast the bread lightly.
- Add sauces just before eating to prevent sogginess.
- Serve immediately.
Easy Recipe Variations
You can customize Choripán in several ways:
Spicy Version
Add sliced jalapeños or extra chili flakes.
Cheese Lover’s Version
Top with grilled provolone cheese.
Chicken Choripán
Substitute chicken sausage.
Vegetarian Version
Use plant-based sausages and the same toppings.
What to Serve with Choripán
Complete your Argentine-inspired meal with:
- Grilled vegetables
- French fries
- Potato salad
- Green salad
- Roasted peppers
- Corn on the cob
- Empanadas
- Malbec wine or sparkling lemonade
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store cooked sausages for up to 3 days.
Keep chimichurri and salsa criolla in separate airtight containers.
Freezer
Freeze cooked sausages for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Warm the sausages on the grill or in a skillet until heated through.
Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can affect the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions for Argentine Choripán Recipe
What is the difference between Argentine and Spanish chorizo?
Argentine chorizo is a fresh, raw pork/beef sausage that must be fully cooked before eating. Spanish chorizo is cured, dried, and heavily spiced with smoked paprika (pimentón), ready to slice without cooking.
What kind of bread is best for Choripán?
Crusty French bread, small baguettes, or ciabatta rolls work best. The bread needs a sturdy outer crust to hold the juiciness of the sausage and oils from the chimichurri.
What does Choripán mean?
The name combines the Spanish words chorizo (sausage) and pan (bread).
Can I make Choripán without a grill?
Yes. A grill pan or cast-iron skillet works well.
Can I prepare the sauces in advance?
Absolutely. Chimichurri tastes even better after resting for several hours or overnight.
Can I make Choripán ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare some components in advance. The chimichurri and salsa criolla actually develop more flavor after a few hours in the refrigerator, making them perfect for meal prep. Grill the chorizo just before serving for the juiciest texture, then assemble the sandwiches while the bread is still warm.
What is the best sausage for authentic Argentine Choripán?
Fresh Argentine-style pork chorizo is the traditional choice because of its mild seasoning and juicy texture. If you can’t find it, use fresh pork sausage with simple seasonings such as garlic, paprika, and black pepper. Avoid cured Spanish chorizo, as it has a firmer texture and a smoky flavor that differs from the classic Argentine version.
Nutrition Information for Argentine Choripán Recipe
(Approximate values per 1 sandwich serving)
Calories: 620 kcal
Protein: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Total Fat: 42 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Dietary Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 980 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
Conclusion
Authentic Argentine Choripán proves that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. With juicy grilled chorizo, crusty bread, vibrant chimichurri, and fresh salsa criolla, every bite captures the spirit of Argentina’s famous barbecue culture.
Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, celebrating with friends, or simply craving something hearty and flavorful, this recipe is an easy way to bring a taste of South America to your table. Fire up the grill, gather your favorite people, and enjoy one of Argentina’s most iconic sandwiches simple, satisfying, and unforgettable.
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This recipe was written and tested by Rasha, the founder of Recipesedeas. Rasha is a food enthusiast living in the USA, sharing her family-inspired recipes and culinary adventures
