Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 mouth-watering spicy red sauce recipes! From classic pasta dishes to bold and zesty marinades, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of smoky BBQ flavors or creamy coconut milk-based sauces, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of spicy red sauces, from the familiar heat of arrabbiata sauce to the bold and adventurous flavors of chipotle and harissa. We’ll also be sharing some innovative twists on traditional recipes, like roasted garlic and tomato sauce or sweet and spicy red sauce for wings. So grab your apron, fire up your stove, and get ready to add a little heat to your meals!
Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta with Red Sauce
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Italy’s Abruzzo region with a spicy kick, creating a satisfying and flavorful pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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, combine arrabbiata sauce and reserved pasta water. Heat over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until warm and well combined.
3. Add chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder to the sauce. Season with salt to taste.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the saucepan, tossing to coat evenly.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 10 minutes
– Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
– Total time: 22-25 minutes
Classic Marinara Red Sauce with Fresh Basil
A timeless Italian staple, this classic marinara red sauce is a simple yet flavorful accompaniment to pasta, pizza, and more. With the brightness of fresh basil, it’s a perfect condiment for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves just before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Sauce
This vibrant sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip. Roasting the red peppers brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the tanginess of tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh or canned crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the red peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
4. In a large saucepan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little olive oil until softened.
5. Add the roasted red pepper, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Red Sauce for Tacos
Add a bold kick to your tacos with this flavorful and spicy chipotle red sauce. This recipe combines the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with the tanginess of tomatoes, creating a perfect accompaniment to your favorite taco fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, seeded and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic, chipotle peppers, and cumin. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in red wine vinegar.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups of sauce
Use this Spicy Chipotle Red Sauce to elevate your tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Homemade Bolognese Red Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this classic homemade bolognese red sauce recipe, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until the vegetables are soft and the meat is fully cooked.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 20-30 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Fiery Red Enchilada Sauce
Add a kick to your Mexican dishes with this bold and spicy red enchilada sauce, perfect for coating tortillas, drizzling over tacos, or serving as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh Anaheim pepper (or similar mild-hot pepper)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, Anaheim pepper, cilantro, garlic, and cumin. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the blended mixture and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly (about 10-15 minutes).
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Red Sauce
A rich and flavorful sauce that’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip. This creamy tomato basil red sauce is quick to make and packs a punch of flavor.
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 diced tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the tomatoes have broken down slightly.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for an additional 5-10 minutes or until it has thickened slightly, stirring occasionally.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Red Clam Sauce for Linguine
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful red clam sauce. This zesty condiment is perfect for linguine, but also pairs well with other short pasta shapes or even as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (6.5 oz) of chopped clams
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup clam juice
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the canned clams, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. If using wine and clam juice, stir them in and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve the Zesty Red Clam Sauce over cooked linguine and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky BBQ Red Sauce for Ribs
This smoky and sweet BBQ red sauce is the perfect accompaniment to tender and juicy ribs. With a depth of flavor from smoked paprika and a tangy kick from apple cider vinegar, this sauce is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spicy Red Curry Sauce with Coconut Milk
This spicy and creamy sauce is perfect for serving over noodles, rice, or as a dipping sauce for your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons red curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the coconut milk, water, fish sauce (if using), and palm sugar; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Tomato Red Sauce
Roasted Garlic and Tomato Red Sauce Recipe
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful red sauce infused with the deep sweetness of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 garlic heads
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap garlic heads in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes or until soft and mashed.
3. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add roasted garlic, chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in chopped basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Tangy Red Sauce for Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this tangy red sauce that’s perfect for pasta, subs, or as a dipping sauce. This easy recipe combines classic tomato flavors with a hint of acidity and sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spicy Harissa Red Sauce for Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this bold and spicy harissa red sauce, perfect for adventurous palates.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup harissa chili paste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine harissa, olive oil, garlic, and honey.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add lemon juice and whisk until well combined.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rich Red Wine Tomato Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful red wine tomato sauce. A perfect blend of tender tomatoes, savory onions, and robust red wine.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh or canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (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.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it reduce for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Red Sauce for Shakshuka
This vibrant red sauce adds a bold kick to your shakshuka dish. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you’ll be enjoying the perfect accompaniment to your eggs and crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Eggplant and Tomato Red Sauce
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional pasta sauce, this recipe combines roasted eggplant and tomatoes with a hint of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place eggplant slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. While the eggplant is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped basil (if using). Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Once the eggplant is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, add it to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
6. Simmer the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
7. Serve the Roasted Eggplant and Tomato Red Sauce over pasta, as a dip, or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Red Sauce for Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your stuffed pepper game with this bold and flavorful Spicy Red Sauce. This easy-to-make condiment adds a kick to any dish, perfect for a dinner party or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, cilantro, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is best served fresh, but it can be stored and used later.
Sweet and Spicy Red Sauce for Wings
Sweet and Spicy Red Sauce for Wings: Elevate your game-day gatherings with this addictive sauce that combines the perfect balance of sweet and heat!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup red pepper flakes
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, red pepper flakes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Tips:
– Adjust the level of heat to your liking by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
– Use this sauce as a dip for wings, fries, or veggies. It’s also great as a topping for burgers and sandwiches!
Roasted Cherry Tomato Red Sauce
Simplify your pasta dishes with this vibrant and flavorful Roasted Cherry Tomato Red Sauce. This homemade sauce is a game-changer, perfect for tossing with al dente pasta, serving as a dipping sauce, or using as a topping for bruschetta.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cherry tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread the tomato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and stir in crushed tomatoes and chopped basil.
6. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Red Sauce for Nachos
Elevate your nacho game with this simple and flavorful Spicy Red Sauce recipe that adds a kick to your snack time. Perfect for dipping, drizzling, or using as a topping!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped cilantro and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve: Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 20 mouth-watering red sauce recipes! From classic marinara and bolognese to spicy chipotle and harissa, there’s something for everyone. Try them on pasta, tacos, meatballs, or as a dip for wings. You’ll also find creative twists like roasted red pepper and tomato sauce, creamy tomato basil sauce, and smoky BBQ red sauce perfect for ribs. Whether you’re in the mood for something tangy, sweet, or spicy, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
