Name: Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/4 cup good olive oil; 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity); 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s perfect for spice lovers: Ina Garten’s Arrabbiata Sauce. This sauce packs a punch with its bold, fiery flavor, combining simple ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Serve it over pasta, use it as a pizza sauce, or spoon it over roasted vegetables—this Arrabbiata Sauce is guaranteed to bring a burst of excitement to your meal.

Let’s get started!

What is Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce?

Ina Garten’s Arrabbiata Sauce is a spicy Italian tomato sauce made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs. The name “arrabbiata” translates to “angry” in Italian, which refers to the heat from the red pepper flakes that give this sauce its signature kick. This sauce is perfect for anyone who enjoys bold, spicy flavors and is incredibly versatile in the kitchen.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Spicy and bold: The red pepper flakes add a fiery kick that’s perfect for spice lovers.
Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples like tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil.
Versatile: Ideal for pasta, pizza, or as a base for other dishes.
Quick to make: Ready in just under 30 minutes.
Homemade goodness: Far better than any store-bought sauce.
Ina Garten’s touch: A recipe that carries the signature quality of the Barefoot Contessa.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce

1/4 cup good olive oil
6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Equipment

To make Ina Garten’s Arrabbiata Sauce, you’ll need the following equipment:

Large skillet or saucepan: For sautéing the garlic and simmering the sauce.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce.
Knife and cutting board: For slicing the garlic and chopping the herbs.
Measuring cups and spoons: To measure out the ingredients accurately.

Instructions to Make Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce

Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté the garlic: Add the thinly sliced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the red pepper flakes: Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to infuse the oil with spice.
Incorporate the tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and add the kosher salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using). Stir well to combine.
Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Finish with herbs: Stir in the chopped basil and parsley, and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve: Toss the Arrabbiata Sauce with your favorite pasta, or use it as a spicy topping for pizza or roasted vegetables. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce

Pasta: Serve over spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni for a classic pairing.
Pizza: Use as a spicy base sauce for homemade pizza.
Grilled chicken: Spoon over grilled chicken breasts for a flavorful kick.
Vegetable dishes: Drizzle over roasted or grilled vegetables for added flavor.
Meatballs: Combine with meatballs for a spicy twist on a classic dish.
Bruschetta: Spread on toasted bread for a bold appetizer.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce

Control the heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness.
Don’t burn the garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic as it sautés to avoid a bitter taste.
Simmer slowly: Allow the sauce to simmer gently to develop rich, deep flavors.
Fresh herbs are key: Fresh basil and parsley add brightness and balance to the sauce.
Serve immediately: This sauce is best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the pan.
Balance acidity: If the sauce is too acidic, a small amount of sugar can help balance the flavors.

Variations of Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce

Extra spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an even spicier sauce.
Smoky flavor: Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
Garlic lover’s version: Double the amount of garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
Creamy Arrabbiata: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta for a creamy version of the sauce.
Vegetable Arrabbiata: Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce for a heartier dish.
Herb swap: Try adding fresh oregano or thyme in addition to or instead of the basil and parsley.

Storing Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce: Best Practices

Use an airtight container: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Refrigerate promptly: Keep the sauce chilled to maintain its freshness.
Use within 5 days: For the best taste and quality, consume within a few days.
Freeze for longer storage: Freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Label your container: Note the date you made the sauce to track freshness.

Reheating Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce: Best Practices

Stovetop reheating: Reheat the sauce on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Microwave reheating: Alternatively, microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, stirring halfway through.
Add a splash of water or broth: If the sauce thickens too much during reheating, add a little water or broth to loosen it.
Stir well: Ensure the sauce is evenly heated and well mixed before serving.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 120 kcal
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 350mg
Sugar: 5g

How Can I Make Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce Healthier?

To make Ina Garten’s Arrabbiata Sauce even healthier, consider these simple adjustments:

Use less oil: Reduce the amount of olive oil or substitute with a cooking spray to lower the fat content.
Lower the sodium: Use less salt or a salt substitute to reduce the sodium content.
Add vegetables: Incorporate more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrients and fiber.
Omit the sugar: Skip the sugar to keep the sauce completely natural, or use a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup.
Choose whole tomatoes: Use canned whole tomatoes and crush them yourself for a less processed option.

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FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s Arrabbiata Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Ina Garten’s Arrabbiata Sauce ahead of time. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, and the flavors often deepen as it sits.

Can I freeze Ina Garten’s Arrabbiata Sauce?

Absolutely! Ina Garten’s Arrabbiata Sauce freezes very well. Portion the sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags, label them, and store them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What pasta works best with Arrabbiata Sauce?

Pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work best with Arrabbiata Sauce as they hold the sauce well, allowing each bite to be flavorful and satisfying.

How do I make this sauce less spicy?

To make the Arrabbiata Sauce less spicy, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely. You can also add a bit of sugar or cream to mellow out the heat.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Arrabbiata Sauce is a bold and flavorful addition to any meal, perfect for those who love a bit of spice. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this sauce is an easy way to elevate your pasta dishes or add a kick to other meals. Whether you like it extra spicy or with just a hint of heat, this Arrabbiata Sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the fiery, homemade taste!