Name: Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or butter); 2-4 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes; 1 small yellow onion, finely diced; 6 large cloves garlic, minced or pressed; 2 (28-ounce) cans whole tomatoes, preferably San Marzano; 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly-chopped; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper

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Introduction

Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful Italian classic, perfect for adding heat and zest to your pasta dishes. Made with simple ingredients like garlic, tomatoes, and red pepper flakes, it’s a quick and satisfying sauce that packs a punch.

Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or butter)
2-4 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes*
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
6 large cloves garlic, minced or pressed
2 (28-ounce) cans whole tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly-chopped
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil or butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat until melted. Add crushed red pepper flakes and sauté for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 2 more minutes, until fragrant, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Add the whole tomatoes to the pan and stir to combine.
Step 5: Break up the tomatoes with a wooden spoon or potato masher as the sauce heats until it reaches a low simmer.
Step 6: Reduce heat to medium and let the sauce cook uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reaches your desired consistency.
Step 7: Stir in the torn basil, sea salt, and black pepper.
Step 8: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if needed.
Step 9: Serve immediately with your favorite pasta, or let the sauce cool before refrigerating.

Tips & Variations

Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat to your preference.
For a richer flavor, use butter instead of olive oil, or a combination of both.
If San Marzano tomatoes are not available, whole plum tomatoes make a good substitute.
Add a splash of red wine while simmering for extra depth.
For a smoother sauce, blend it briefly with an immersion blender before adding the basil.

Storage

Store leftover Arrabbiata sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This sauce can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

While fresh tomatoes can be used, canned whole tomatoes like San Marzano are preferred for their consistent sweetness and flavor. If using fresh tomatoes, choose ripe plum tomatoes and simmer longer for best results.

How spicy is Arrabbiata sauce?

Arrabbiata sauce is moderately spicy, thanks to the crushed red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more or less according to your taste.