Q : What is spicy pasta sauce made of?

A : Spicy pasta sauce is usually made with tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, chili flakes, herbs, salt, and pepper. This version also includes onion, oregano, red wine vinegar, and fresh basil for extra flavor.

Q : Is arrabbiata sauce the same as spicy pasta sauce?

A : Arrabbiata sauce is a type of spicy pasta sauce. It’s an Italian tomato sauce made with garlic, chili flakes, olive oil, and tomatoes. The heat from the chili flakes is what makes it different from a regular marinara sauce.

Q : How do you make pasta sauce spicier?

A : Add more crushed red pepper flakes or dried chili flakes. Start with a small amount, let the sauce simmer, then taste and adjust. Chili gets stronger as it cooks, so it’s always easier to add more than to take it away.

Q : How do you make spicy pasta sauce less spicy?

A : Add more tomatoes, a splash of cream, a little butter, or a pinch of sugar to soften the heat. Serving it with pasta and plenty of grated parmesan also helps balance the spice.

Q : Can you freeze spicy pasta sauce?

A : Yes. Spicy pasta sauce freezes very well. Cool it completely, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Q : What pasta goes best with arrabbiata sauce?

A : Penne is the classic choice for arrabbiata sauce, but rigatoni, spaghetti, linguine, fusilli, and orecchiette all work well. Choose a pasta shape that holds the sauce nicely.

Spicy Pasta Sauce Recipe (Easy Arrabbiata Sauce)

Name: Spicy Pasta Sauce Recipe (Easy Arrabbiata Sauce)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-495855H27M21S
Total time: PT-495855H27M21S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: For the sauce3 tbsp (45 ml) extra virgin olive oil2 medium onions, finely chopped6 garlic cloves, finely minced2 tsp (10ml) fresh oregano, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried oregano)1–3 tsp (5 - 15 ml) crushed red pepper flakes (dried chili flakes), to taste3 × 400 g (3 × 14 oz) canned whole peeled tomatoes (San Marzano if possible)1 tbsp (15 ml) red wine vinegarSalt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste15 g (½ cup loosely packed) fresh basil, cut into ribbons

Description

This spicy pasta sauce recipe is an easy tomato-based sauce made with olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, canned tomatoes, oregano, and fresh basil. It’s bold, simple, and perfect for pasta, gnocchi, pizza, lasagna, or dipping warm bread.

Ingredients

For the sauce
3 tbsp (45 ml) extra virgin olive oil
2 medium onions, finely chopped
6 garlic cloves, finely minced
2 tsp (10ml) fresh oregano, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried oregano)
1-3 tsp (5 - 15 ml) crushed red pepper flakes (dried chili flakes), to taste
3 × 400 g (3 × 14 oz) canned whole peeled tomatoes (San Marzano if possible)
1 tbsp (15 ml) red wine vinegar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
15 g (1/2 cup loosely packed) fresh basil, cut into ribbons

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Instructions

1. Prep the tomatoes
Add the canned tomatoes (with their juice) to a blender or food processor and give them a quick blitz until slightly smooth but still rustic.

Chef’s Tip: You don’t want a completely silky sauce here. A little texture gives the sauce a lovely homemade feel.

2. Sauté the aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 6–8 minutes until soft and translucent.

Add the garlic, oregano, and chili flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Chef’s Tip: Let the chili flakes toast gently in the oil — this helps release their flavor without making the sauce harsh.

3. Add tomatoes
Pour in the blended tomatoes and stir well. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Cook uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have developed.

Chef’s Tip: Keep the sauce at a gentle bubble rather than a hard boil. This gives you a richer sauce and helps prevent the tomatoes from catching on the bottom of the pot.

4. Season
Stir in the red wine vinegar, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Taste and adjust the heat, salt, and acidity if needed.

5. Finish with basil and serve

Stir in the fresh basil just before serving.

Serve with your favorite pasta, gnocchi, meatballs, or use it as a base for other recipes.

Notes

Storage Instructions

Fridge: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze in 1 cup portions for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or pasta water if needed.

Make Ahead: This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. The flavor gets even better the next day.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Category: Pasta
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 98
Sugar: 4.1 g
Sodium: 318.4 mg
Fat: 7.4 g
Carbohydrates: 8.3 g
Protein: 1.5 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg