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Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce Recipe

4.8 from 69 reviews

A bold and spicy Arrabbiata sauce made with olive oil, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, onions, and ripe San Marzano tomatoes simmered to a perfect spicy and flavorful consistency. This versatile Italian sauce pairs wonderfully with pasta or as a base for other dishes.

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or butter)
  • 24 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

  1. Heat the Oil and Spices: Heat olive oil or butter in a large saucepan or deep sauté pan over medium-high heat until melted. Add crushed red pepper flakes and sauté for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to infuse the oil with spice.
  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally. Then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the whole canned tomatoes, breaking them up with a wooden spoon or potato masher as you stir. Bring the sauce to a low simmer, then reduce heat to medium to maintain a gentle simmer. Continue cooking uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and reaches your desired consistency.
  4. Season the Sauce: Stir in fresh torn basil leaves, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes if desired for additional heat.
  5. Serve or Store: Serve the sauce immediately over your favorite pasta or dish. Alternatively, allow the sauce to cool completely and then store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes depending on your preferred spice level.
  • Using San Marzano tomatoes adds authenticity and a richer flavor to the sauce.
  • You can substitute butter for olive oil for a creamier, richer flavor profile.
  • The sauce thickens as it simmers; simmer uncovered to achieve the desired consistency.
  • This sauce freezes well for up to 3 months in airtight containers.

Keywords: Arrabbiata sauce, spicy pasta sauce, Italian tomato sauce, spicy tomato sauce, easy pasta sauce