When it comes to pasta, there’s one thing that can make or break the dish: the sauce. A good spaghetti sauce can elevate a simple plate of noodles into a satisfying and flavorful meal. But with so many options out there, where do you even start? From classic marinara to creamy Alfredo and spicy arrabbiata, we’ve rounded up 18 savory spaghetti sauce recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll be exploring a range of sauces that showcase the diversity of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or subtle nuances, there’s something for everyone in our collection of authentic spaghetti sauce recipes. From traditional favorites like bolognese and pesto to more modern twists like pumpkin sage and cajun, we’ll be counting down our top picks and sharing the secrets behind each delicious dish.
So let’s get started and take a journey through the world of spaghetti sauces! Which one will you try first?
Classic Marinara Spaghetti Sauce
A simple yet flavorful sauce that’s a staple of Italian cuisine, this classic marinara spaghetti sauce is a great starting point for many pasta dishes. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a deliciously rich and tangy sauce to accompany your favorite noodles.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until translucent.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Spaghetti Sauce
This recipe brings the heat with a spicy twist on traditional spaghetti sauce. Garlic, red pepper flakes, and crushed tomatoes come together to create a bold and flavorful sauce that’s sure to spice up your pasta game.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Stir in chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Serve over cooked spaghetti and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Creamy Alfredo Spaghetti Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, perfect for coating spaghetti or fettuccine. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously indulgent meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1-2 minutes or until lightly golden.
3. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet satisfying garlic parmesan spaghetti sauce recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this rich and flavorful sauce is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Serve hot over cooked spaghetti noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Spaghetti Sauce
Roasted Red Pepper Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the savory flavors of garlic, onion, and herbs to create a unique and delicious spaghetti sauce. Perfect for pasta lovers looking to add some excitement to their meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red peppers: Place peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered and charred.
3. Remove peppers from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, discarding it, and chop peppers into small pieces.
4. In a large saucepan, sauté the garlic and onion in olive oil until softened.
5. Add the roasted red peppers, crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Serve with your favorite pasta and enjoy!
Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce
This rich and flavorful sauce originates from Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region and is a staple of traditional Italian cuisine. With its deep red color and robust flavor, it’s the perfect accompaniment to spaghetti and other pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 1 (28 oz) can whole peeled tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add the canned tomatoes, red wine, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pesto Spaghetti Sauce
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Italy with a creamy and vibrant pesto sauce, perfect for pasta lovers. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious and authentic Italian-inspired dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth and creamy.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. Continue processing until well combined.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the pesto sauce and stir to combine.
5. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the pesto sauce, adding more pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Cook time: 8-10 minutes (depending on spaghetti cooking time)
– Total time: 23-25 minutes
Vodka Spaghetti Sauce
Vodka Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
A twist on traditional spaghetti sauce, this recipe adds a hint of vodka to give it a unique flavor and kick. Perfect for those who want to add an extra layer of sophistication to their pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil 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, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, vodka, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using Parmesan cheese, stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti Sauce
This rich and flavorful sauce combines the savory taste of sun-dried tomatoes with the simplicity of a classic spaghetti sauce, making it perfect for pasta lovers. With its intense tomato flavor and subtle sweetness, this sauce is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and dried oregano. Stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mushroom Marsala Spaghetti Sauce
A rich and savory sauce that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the depth of Marsala wine, perfect for coating your favorite pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Marsala wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add Marsala wine and bring to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for at least 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your liking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sausage Spaghetti Sauce
Add a kick to your spaghetti game with this easy and flavorful sauce recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside. Leave drippings behind.
3. Add onion and garlic to skillet; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in marinara sauce, red wine (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Return sausage to skillet; stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low; let sauce simmer for at least 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Spaghetti Sauce
This autumn-inspired pasta sauce combines the warmth of roasted pumpkin with the earthy flavor of sage, creating a rich and comforting accompaniment to your favorite spaghetti dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large saucepan, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in a little bit of olive oil until softened.
4. Add roasted pumpkin, crushed tomatoes, and chopped sage to the saucepan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer sauce over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Serve warm over cooked spaghetti, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Tomato Basil Spaghetti Sauce
This classic Italian-inspired sauce is a staple for any pasta lover’s kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be rewarded with a rich, tangy, and aromatic condiment perfect for coating your favorite spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and reduced slightly.
5. Stir in the chopped basil leaves.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Olive Tapenade Spaghetti Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavors of olive tapenade with classic spaghetti sauce, creating a unique and savory dish that’s perfect for pasta lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive tapenade
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive tapenade in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Stir until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion Spaghetti Sauce
This rich and flavorful sauce is perfect for pasta lovers who want to elevate their spaghetti game. By cooking down sweet onions with garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, you’ll create a velvety sauce that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until they’re dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the sauce over cooked spaghetti and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Herbed Butter Spaghetti Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful herbed butter spaghetti sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the richness of butter, the brightness of fresh herbs, and the comfort of homemade tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, parsley, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve over cooked spaghetti noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Spaghetti Sauce
Brighten up your pasta dishes with this tangy and aromatic lemon garlic spaghetti sauce! This recipe is a twist on the classic tomato-based sauces, adding a burst of citrus flavor to elevate your meals.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the lemon juice and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Spaghetti Sauce
Get ready to spice up your pasta game with this bold and flavorful Cajun Spaghetti Sauce! This recipe combines the classic Italian dish with the bold flavors of Louisiana’s Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in chopped bell peppers; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 18 savory spaghetti sauce recipes! From classic marinara to spicy arrabbiata and creamy alfredo, there’s something for everyone. Discover bold flavors like roasted red pepper, bolognese, and vodka-infused sauces, as well as vegetarian options like pesto and sun-dried tomato. Meat-lovers will enjoy sausage-filled sauces, while spice enthusiasts can indulge in Cajun-inspired dishes. Whether you’re a pasta novice or a seasoned chef, these authentic recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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