The BEST Authentic Arrabbiata Sauce

Arrabbiata Sauce is a classic Italian favorite for anyone who loves a little heat with their pasta. Its bold, fiery flavors come from dried chilies and chili flakes, balanced by the rich sweetness of fire-roasted tomatoes. This authentic recipe is perfect for spaghetti, penne, or any pasta you like, and it doubles as a flavorful pizza sauce or spicy dip. Quick, simple, and packed with flavor, this sauce will bring a restaurant-quality Italian kick straight to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and spicy flavor with authentic Italian heat
• Uses fire-roasted tomatoes for a rich, smoky depth
• Simple ingredients and easy to make in under 30 minutes
• Versatile: perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce
• Easily customizable for your preferred spice level

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – infuses the sauce and enhances flavor
• 2 dried chili peppers – provides authentic fiery heat
• 1 teaspoon dried chili flakes – adds extra spice and depth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic and pungent
• 2 small onions, finely diced – adds sweetness and body
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – intensifies tomato flavor
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) crushed tomatoes, fire-roasted if possible – rich, smoky base
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar – adds subtle tang and complexity
• 2 cups vegetable broth – creates a balanced, saucy consistency
• ¼ cup vodka, optional – adds subtle depth and rounds out flavors
• Fresh basil leaves – for freshness and garnish

How to Make Arrabbiata Sauce

Step 1: Infuse the Olive Oil

Heat the olive oil in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Add the dried chili peppers and chili flakes, letting them infuse the oil for 2–3 minutes. This brings out the full spicy aroma.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the finely diced onions and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté gently for about 5 minutes until the onions turn golden brown and fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate the Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste and cook with the onions and garlic for about 5 minutes. This step deepens the flavor and gives the sauce a rich base.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 15 minutes until it thickens to a perfect consistency.

Step 5: Finish with Vodka and Basil

Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the vodka if using, and add fresh basil leaves to taste.

Tips for Success

• Adjust Spice: Increase or reduce chili flakes and dried chilies according to your heat tolerance.
• Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: Adds smoky depth, but regular crushed tomatoes work too.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months.
• Consistency: Simmer longer if you prefer a thicker sauce, or add more broth for a thinner sauce.

Equipment Needed

• Medium-sized sauté pan
• Cutting board and knife for onions and garlic
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring spoons and cups

Recipe Variations

• Extra Spicy Arrabbiata: Add more dried chilies or a pinch of cayenne.
• Vegetable Arrabbiata: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms while simmering.
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a mellow, rich version.
• Seafood Arrabbiata: Add shrimp or mussels during the last few minutes of cooking for a seafood pasta dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Toss with penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni for classic pasta arrabbiata
• Use as a spicy pizza sauce base
• Serve as a dip with crusty breadsticks or garlic bread
• Pair with roasted vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly meal

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to a week or can be frozen for up to three months.

Is the vodka necessary?
No, it’s optional. Vodka adds subtle depth but can be omitted without affecting the overall flavor.

How spicy is this sauce?
The heat comes from dried chilies and chili flakes. Adjust amounts to your preference.

Can I use fresh chilies instead of dried?
Yes, finely chop fresh chilies, but the heat may be slightly different.

Can this sauce be made vegan?
Absolutely! Just ensure the vegetable broth is plant-based and skip the vodka if desired.

Final Thoughts

This authentic Arrabbiata Sauce is fiery, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a spicy dip, it brings bold Italian flavors straight to your kitchen. Quick, easy, and made with simple pantry ingredients, this sauce is a must-have for anyone who loves a little heat and a lot of flavor in their meals.

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