Get ready to ignite your taste buds with our collection of 20 spicy red sauce recipes! Whether you’re a pasta aficionado, pizza enthusiast, or just looking for a new twist on traditional dishes, we’ve got you covered. From classic marinara to smoky chipotle tomato sauce, and from simple weeknight pasta sauces to rich and tangy bolognese, our roundup of spicy red sauce recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of fiery flavors and explore a range of sauces that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something mild or something that will set your taste buds ablaze, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering options to choose from. So grab a spoon, get ready to sweat, and let’s dive into the world of spicy red sauce recipes!
Classic Marinara Red Sauce
This classic marinara red sauce recipe is a timeless favorite, perfect for pasta dishes, pizza toppings, or as a dipping sauce. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful sauce in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until fragrant and slightly golden.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Remove from heat and use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta Sauce
This classic Italian pasta sauce gets a spicy kick from crushed red peppers and garlic, making it perfect for those who like a little heat. Serve with your favorite pasta shape and some crusty bread on the side.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 2-3 dried red pepper flakes (depending on desired level of heat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly golden (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the crushed red peppers and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the canned tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot over cooked pasta, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Rich and Tangy Bolognese Sauce
This hearty Italian-inspired sauce is a perfect accompaniment to pasta, meatballs, or as a dipping sauce for bread. With its rich flavor profile and tangy kick, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup dry red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp tomato paste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 7-8 minutes.
5. Add the red wine, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Tomato Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this smoky and spicy tomato sauce that combines the flavors of chipotle peppers, onions, garlic, and fresh tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a topping for tacos.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chipotle peppers and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic and Herb Tomato Sauce
This rich and flavorful sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce. With the combination of garlic, herbs, and ripe tomatoes, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the chopped parsley.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Weeknight Red Pasta Sauce
Quick Weeknight Red Pasta Sauce Recipe
Busy weeknights don’t mean sacrificing flavor! This speedy sauce recipe is a game-changer for a delicious and satisfying pasta dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve over cooked pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce
This classic Italian sauce is a staple for pasta lovers. With its rich and tangy flavor profile, it’s a perfect accompaniment to your favorite noodles or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes), diced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to break down.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fire-Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Sauce
Transform your pasta dishes or pizza nights with this vibrant and flavorful sauce, bursting with smoky sweetness from the fire-roasting process. This recipe is a perfect blend of simple and bold flavors that will elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and halved
– 2 red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or oven to high heat.
2. Brush the tomato halves and red bell pepper slices with olive oil.
3. Fire-roast the vegetables for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and slightly softened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Peel the skin off the tomatoes and place them in a blender or food processor with the roasted peppers, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. Blend until smooth, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow-Cooked Sunday Gravy
Slow-Cooked Sunday Gravy Recipe
This classic Italian-inspired gravy recipe is a staple for any Sunday dinner, perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Transfer mixture to slow cooker. Add red wine, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in olive oil.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegan Mushroom and Tomato Ragu
This hearty, plant-based ragu is a perfect comfort food dish, rich in flavor and nutrients. Made with sautéed mushrooms, onions, garlic, and canned tomatoes, it’s a great alternative to traditional meat-based pasta sauces.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and vegetable broth.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Homemade Pizza Sauce with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your homemade pizza game with this simple and flavorful sauce recipe, featuring fresh herbs like basil and oregano.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups crushed San Marzano tomatoes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the chopped basil and oregano. Season with additional salt if needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: Approximately 2 cups of pizza sauce
Spicy Harissa Tomato Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or pizzas with this bold and aromatic Spicy Harissa Tomato Sauce. A perfect blend of sweet tomatoes, spicy harissa, and rich olive oil creates a flavor profile that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon harissa chili paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, harissa, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican-Style Enchilada Red Sauce
This rich and flavorful red sauce is a staple of Mexican cuisine, perfect for pouring over enchiladas, tacos, or using as a dip. With its deep red color and tangy flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Fresh Tomato and Garlic Sauce
This classic Italian-inspired sauce is a perfect accompaniment to pasta, pizza, or as a dip. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying the rich flavors of fresh tomatoes and garlic in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Tomato Pasta Sauce
Transform your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful sauce made by roasting garlic and tomatoes to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 garlic cloves
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
– 1 cup pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place garlic cloves on a piece of foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold to create a package. Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove roasted garlic from the foil and add it to the skillet with onion. Stir to combine.
5. Add halved tomatoes to the skillet, salt, and pepper. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tomatoes are tender and sauce has thickened.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the roasted garlic and tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Barbecue Tomato Sauce
Add a smoky twist to your favorite pasta dishes or use as a dipping sauce with this easy-to-make Smoky Barbecue Tomato Sauce. With the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine diced tomatoes, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Use as a pasta sauce, dipping sauce, or as a topping for your favorite dishes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Rustic Tomato and Olive Sauce
This hearty sauce is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a base for your favorite pasta dishes. With the rich flavors of caramelized tomatoes, briny olives, and aromatic herbs, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are caramelized and tender.
3. Add the sliced olives, garlic, and oregano to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Ketchup-Style Sauce
Elevate your condiment game with this addictive sweet and spicy ketchup-style sauce, perfect for topping hot dogs, burgers, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground ginger, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Red Wine Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful Sun-Dried Tomato and Red Wine Sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, red wine, tomato paste, and basil. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Five-Ingredient Mediterranean Tomato Sauce
Quickly elevate your pasta dishes with this simple and flavorful Mediterranean tomato sauce, made with just five ingredients. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (6 oz) of Kalamata olives, pitted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to break down.
4. Stir in the Kalamata olives and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 spicy red sauce recipes, perfect for every occasion! From classic marinara to bold and smoky chipotle tomato sauce, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a pasta lover, pizza enthusiast, or looking for a vegan option, this collection has got you covered. Try the rich and tangy bolognese sauce on spaghetti, or spice up your weeknight with a quick and easy red pasta sauce. And don’t forget to add some heat with one of our many spicy sauces! Your taste buds will thank you.
