Arrabbiata Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Arrabbiata Sauce, or “Sugo all’arrabbiata,” is a fiery Italian tomato sauce known for its bold flavors and spicy kick. Made with simple ingredients like garlic, tomatoes, olive oil, and red chili flakes, it’s a quick and flavorful sauce perfect for pasta lovers who crave a bit of heat. Ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with authentic Italian flavor.

ingredients

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

olive oilgarliccrushed red pepper flakescanned whole plum tomatoes (San Marzano preferred)saltfresh parsley (optional)fresh basil (optional)

directions

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

Add sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned.

Stir in red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds to release the heat.

Add the canned tomatoes, breaking them up with a spoon or your hands.

Season with salt and bring the sauce to a simmer.

Let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and rich.

Adjust seasoning and spice level to taste.

Stir in chopped parsley or basil just before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields enough sauce for 4 servings of pasta.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of red wine for deeper flavor.

Include chopped onions for extra sweetness and depth.

Use fresh tomatoes in peak season for a lighter, fresher taste.

Blend the sauce for a smoother texture.

Serve with grated Pecorino Romano for a salty finish.

storage/reheating

Store Arrabbiata Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.

FAQs

How spicy is Arrabbiata Sauce?

It’s moderately to very spicy, depending on how much chili you use.

Can I make it less spicy?

Yes, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of sugar to mellow the heat.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne is traditional, but rigatoni, spaghetti, or fusilli also work well.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely, the flavor improves after resting, making it perfect for meal prep.

Is this sauce vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan and dairy-free.

Can I use tomato paste?

A small amount can be added for extra depth, but it’s not essential.

Can I use fresh chili instead of flakes?

Yes, finely chop and sauté it with the garlic.

Can I add meat to this sauce?

Yes, spicy Italian sausage or pancetta makes a great addition.

Why is it called “Arrabbiata”?

“Arrabbiata” means “angry” in Italian, referring to the sauce’s fiery nature.

Does it pair well with cheese?

Yes, pair it with sharp cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Parmesan.

Conclusion

Arrabbiata Sauce is a fiery, flavorful staple of Italian cuisine that brings heat and heart to any pasta dish. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s perfect for spice lovers and those looking to elevate a simple meal. Keep a batch on hand and turn any pasta night into a celebration of bold, robust taste.

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