Arrabiatta Sauce Recipe

Ignite your taste buds with this authentic Arrabbiata sauce recipe! Whether you prefer a vegetarian version or a richer pancetta-infused delight, this recipe delivers a vibrant, spicy sauce perfect for your favorite pasta. Made with fresh tomatoes for the ultimate flavor (though canned works in a pinch!), you control the spice level with customizable amounts of chili flakes and herbs. Get ready for an unforgettable culinary adventure!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 80 mins
Calories 160.9 kcal
Protein 7g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Arrabiatta Sauce

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Arrabiatta Sauce

  • 2 lbs ripe tomatoes
  • Hot Red Chili Peppers
  • Red Bell Pepper
  • Garlic Cloves
  • 1/4 cup olive oil + 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 ounces diced pancetta (optional)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • Fresh Lemon Juice
  • Unbleached Cane Sugar
  • Oregano
  • Fresh Basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Fresh Parsley
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine

How to Make Arrabiatta Sauce

  1. Blanch tomatoes: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 2 lbs of tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes to loosen skins.
  2. Peel tomatoes: Remove tomatoes from boiling water and peel off skins. Discard boiling water.
  3. Sauté aromatics: In a large stock pot, heat 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat. Add 5 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon dried oregano (or 2 tablespoons chopped fresh). Stir well.
  4. Cook tomatoes: Add peeled tomatoes to the pot and bring to a simmer. Crush tomatoes slightly with a spoon.
  5. Cook Pancetta (Optional): In a separate skillet, cook 4 ounces diced pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove pancetta, reserving 2 tablespoons of rendered fat.
  6. Sauté onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add 1/2 cup finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add 5 cloves minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
  7. Add chili flakes: Add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes (or more, to taste) and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
  8. Deglaze and simmer: Add 1/2 cup dry red wine to the skillet and simmer for 3-4 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
  9. Combine and simmer: Pour the pancetta mixture (or reserved pancetta fat for vegetarian option) into the tomato sauce. Stir well. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  10. Finish and serve: Stir in 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Toss with your favorite pasta and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley (optional).

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

12 g

Sugar

43g

Fat

5g

Carbs

6g