Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sauce is simple, flavorful, and comes together quickly with pantry staples. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and customizable to your spice preference. Whether you like it mildly spicy or fiery hot, this classic Italian sauce brings a burst of flavor to any dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers, chopped
• Crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Tomato paste
• Dried oregano
• Fresh basil (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and chili flakes (or fresh chili) and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
4. Add crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
5. Season with oregano, salt, and black pepper.
6. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
7. Stir in fresh basil before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 cups of sauce (serves 4–6 people).
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use fresh chili peppers for extra heat and a fresher flavor.
• Add a splash of red wine for depth and richness.
• Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense tomato flavor.
• Add olives or capers for a Mediterranean twist.
• Use smoked paprika for a subtle smoky heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store arrabbiata sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce less spicy?

Yes, reduce the amount of chili flakes or use a mild chili pepper.

Can I make it extra spicy?

Absolutely—add more chili flakes or use hot varieties of peppers.

What type of tomatoes work best?

Canned crushed tomatoes are convenient, but fresh ripe tomatoes work wonderfully too.

Can I use this sauce on pizza?

Yes, arrabbiata sauce makes a deliciously spicy pizza base.

Do I need to add sugar to the sauce?

No, but if your tomatoes are very acidic, a small pinch of sugar can balance the flavor.

Can I make this sauce oil-free?

Yes, sauté garlic and chili in a splash of vegetable broth instead of olive oil.

What pasta pairs best with arrabbiata?

Penne is the traditional choice, but spaghetti, rigatoni, or fusilli work great.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just double the ingredients and increase simmering time slightly if needed.

Is this sauce vegan?

Yes, arrabbiata is naturally vegan and plant-based.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, dried oregano and basil work well if fresh herbs aren’t available.

Conclusion

Spicy arrabbiata sauce is a quick and flavorful Italian classic that delivers the perfect balance of heat and savory tomato goodness. Easy to prepare, versatile, and customizable, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold, zesty flavors. Serve it with pasta, pizza, or breadsticks for a satisfying and fiery meal.

Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce

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Spicy arrabbiata sauce is a fiery Italian tomato sauce made with garlic, chili peppers, and herbs. It’s bold, zesty, and perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping breadsticks.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 cups (serves 4–6)
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

1. 2 tbsp olive oil
2. 4 garlic cloves, minced
3. 1–2 tsp red pepper flakes (or 1 fresh chili pepper, chopped)
4. 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (or equivalent fresh tomatoes)
5. 2 tbsp tomato paste
6. 1 tsp dried oregano
7. 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (optional)
8. Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

1. Add minced garlic and chili flakes (or fresh chili) and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.
3. Add crushed tomatoes and stir well.
4. Season with oregano, salt, and black pepper.
5. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
6. Stir in fresh basil before serving, if desired.

Notes

• Adjust chili amount to control spice level.
• Add a splash of red wine for richness.
• Sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or capers add Mediterranean flair.
• For oil-free, sauté garlic and chili in vegetable broth instead.
• Store leftovers in the fridge up to 5 days or freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup
• Calories: 70
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg