Are you a pasta lover looking to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering spicy red sauce recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic spaghetti with homemade marinara sauce to shakshuka with spicy tomato and pepper sauce, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re in the mood for a rich and creamy sauce or a bold and zesty one, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of recipes features a range of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy your cravings. So why wait? Dive into the world of spicy red sauces and discover new ways to spice up your pasta game!
Classic Spaghetti with Homemade Marinara Sauce
This beloved Italian dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of al dente spaghetti and rich, tangy marinara sauce is a match made in heaven. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create this comforting meal at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28-ounce canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the saucepan if the sauce becomes too thick.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Arrabbiata Pasta with Spicy Red Sauce
This classic Italian recipe combines simplicity with bold flavors, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a spicy and savory pasta dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
– 2 cups (475ml) canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and spicy red sauce. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Meatball Sub with Tangy Tomato Sauce
A classic Italian-American favorite gets a flavorful twist with these homemade meatballs and tangy tomato sauce, served on toasted sub rolls. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 sub rolls
– Provolone cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer.
6. Assemble subs by placing cooked meatballs on toasted rolls, topping with tangy tomato sauce, and finishing with sliced provolone cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan with Rich Red Sauce
Classic Italian-American comfort food gets a boost from rich red sauce and crispy eggplant slices. This satisfying dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups rich red sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Dip eggplant slices in flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry eggplant slices until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
4. Transfer fried eggplant to a baking dish. Top each slice with red sauce and mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Margherita Pizza with Fresh Tomato Sauce
A timeless Italian favorite, this Margherita pizza showcases the simplicity and flavor of fresh tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and authentic Neapolitan-style pizza in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (120ml) lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 cups (250g) fresh tomato sauce (see below for recipe)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Fresh Tomato Sauce:
– 3 large tomatoes, cored and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup (30ml) extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm). Place on a baking sheet.
3. Spread the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Arrange mozzarella slices on top of the sauce.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
6. Sprinkle with chopped basil, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shakshuka with Spicy Tomato and Pepper Sauce
This North African-inspired dish is a flavorful twist on traditional shakshuka, with the added kick of spicy tomato and pepper sauce. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this recipe is quick to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 6 eggs
– Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or omelette pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until tender.
4. Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Create 6 wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well.
7. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
8. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Baked Ziti with Creamy Tomato Sauce
This classic Italian-American dish is a comforting crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With its creamy tomato sauce and gooey melted mozzarella, it’s an irresistible treat that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta al dente, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, tomato sauce mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Parmesan with Garlicky Red Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this beloved Italian-American favorite, featuring crispy chicken topped with melted mozzarella and a rich garlicky red sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal for a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup garlicky red sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Prepare chicken breasts by dipping in egg and then coating with breadcrumb mixture.
3. Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Transfer cooked chicken to a baking dish, spoon garlicky red sauce on top of each breast, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Smoky Tomato Sauce
This recipe combines the bold flavors of penne alla vodka with the smokiness of tomatoes, creating a unique and mouth-watering pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, vodka, and reserved pasta water. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with the smoky tomato sauce. Garnish with parsley or basil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Lasagna with Layered Red Sauce
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines tender beef with rich tomato sauce and creamy lasagna noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Assemble lasagna by layering cooked beef mixture, ricotta mixture, and lasagna noodles in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil leaves (if using).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Herb-Infused Tomato Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines tender bell peppers with a rich, herb-infused tomato sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 lb ground turkey or beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tsp fresh parsley leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Stuff each bell pepper with the ground meat mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
3. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
5. While peppers are cooking, combine crushed tomatoes, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
6. Serve stuffed bell peppers with the herb-infused tomato sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Tomato Basil Soup with Chunky Red Sauce
This hearty soup combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic with a rich red sauce made with crushed San Marzano tomatoes. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crushed San Marzano tomatoes (about 1 cup)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in the crushed San Marzano tomatoes and chopped basil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Peppers in Tomato Sauce
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch. Spicy sausage, bell peppers, and onions simmered in a rich tomato sauce make for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano. Bring sauce to a simmer.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mushroom Ravioli with Rustic Tomato Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this hearty recipe that combines tender mushroom-filled ravioli with a rich and tangy tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package fresh wonton wrappers (about 20-24 sheets)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– For the sauce:
+ 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
+ 1 tablespoon olive oil
+ 1 small onion, finely chopped
+ 1 teaspoon dried basil
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine mushrooms, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a wonton wrapper on a clean surface and place about 1 tablespoon of the mushroom mixture in the center.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges together to seal.
5. Cook ravioli in boiling, salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float. Drain and serve with Rustic Tomato Sauce (see below).
Rustic Tomato Sauce:
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce thickens.
3. Serve ravioli with Rustic Tomato Sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek-Style Moussaka with Spiced Red Sauce
This classic Greek dish combines tender eggplant slices with a rich and flavorful spiced red sauce, topped with a creamy bechamel. Perfect for a satisfying dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a large saucepan, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add tomato puree, cinnamon, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Prepare bechamel by whisking flour into milk, then cooking over medium heat until thickened.
5. Assemble the moussaka: layer eggplant slices, spiced red sauce, and bechamel in a baking dish. Top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Bread with Dipping Marinara Sauce
Savor the comfort of a warm garlic bread slathered with rich marinara sauce, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite pasta dishes. This recipe is a simple yet satisfying twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf Italian-style bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce for dipping (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each bread slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the garlic butter.
6. Place the bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ratatouille with Slow-Cooked Tomato Sauce
This classic Provençal dish from France is a staple of summer cooking, perfect for warm weather gatherings and outdoor meals. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 2 large eggplants, sliced
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and eggplants; cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add crushed tomatoes and remaining 3/4 cup olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or in the oven at 375°F for 1-2 hours.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (slow cooker) or 1-2 hours (oven)
Pasta Puttanesca with Bold Tomato and Olive Sauce
This classic Italian recipe combines the bold flavors of tomatoes, olives, capers, and garlic with al dente pasta for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil
– 2 cups (400g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup (30g) pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, olives, capers, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Toss cooked spaghetti with the tomato and olive sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your pasta game with these 18 mouth-watering red sauce recipes! From classic spaghetti with homemade marinara sauce to bold and smoky tomato sauces, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for meatball subs or eggplant parmesan, these recipes will take your pasta dishes to the next level. With a range of flavors from tangy to rich and creamy, you’ll never get bored with these spicy red sauce options. So go ahead and add some heat to your pasta nights!
