Ina Garten Arrabiata Sauce

Ina Garten’s Arrabbiata Sauce is a fiery, flavorful tomato sauce made with pantry staples and a touch of elegance. Known for its bold heat and rich tomato base, this sauce is ideal for tossing with pasta, spooning over meatballs, or using as a base for baked dishes. “Arrabbiata” translates to “angry” in Italian—referring to its spicy kick from crushed red pepper flakes.

This version brings together classic Italian flavor with Ina’s signature simplicity and freshness.

What Is Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce?

Arrabbiata sauce is a traditional Italian pasta sauce made with garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, and crushed red pepper flakes. Ina’s take enhances the flavor with high-quality ingredients, a touch of red wine for depth, and fresh herbs for balance.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten’s Mediterranean Chicken
• Ina Garten’s White Pizza with Arugula

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce

• Perfect for spice lovers – Packed with heat and boldness
• Simple and fast – Ready in under 40 minutes
• Customizable heat level – Adjust chili flakes to your taste
• Versatile use – Great with pasta, seafood, or chicken
• Freezer-friendly – Make a big batch and store for later
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free – Clean and inclusive ingredients
• Better than store-bought – No preservatives or sugar overload

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1½ teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes
• ½ cup dry red wine (optional, for depth)
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce

Step 1: Sauté garlic and chili flakes

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant and lightly golden—about 1–2 minutes. Do not let the garlic burn.

Step 2: Add tomato paste and wine

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 1–2 minutes. Pour in the red wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze.

Step 3: Add tomatoes and season

Crush the canned tomatoes with your hands or a spoon and add them to the pot, including their juices. Add salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).

Step 4: Simmer the sauce

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and flavors deepen.

Step 5: Finish with herbs and taste

Stir in chopped basil if using. Taste and adjust seasoning or spice level as needed.

Step 6: Serve or store

Serve hot with pasta, or let it cool and store for later use.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce

• Penne or rigatoni pasta – Classic pairing with ridges to catch the sauce
• Grilled chicken or shrimp – Adds protein to the heat
• Sautéed vegetables – Like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach
• Crusty garlic bread – To mop up the extra sauce
• Stuffed shells or baked ziti – As a bold base
• Meatballs or Italian sausage – Rich and savory combo
• Red wine like Chianti or Barbera – Balances spice beautifully

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce

• Use quality canned tomatoes – San Marzano offers the best flavor
• Start with a small amount of chili flakes – Add more later if needed
• Simmer slowly – Helps the sauce thicken and flavors blend
• Taste as you go – Adjust salt and spice to your liking
• Add sugar only if needed – For overly acidic tomatoes
• Fresh herbs add brightness – Basil or parsley work well
• Cool completely before freezing – Preserves texture and taste

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce

• Add anchovy paste – For umami depth without fishiness
• Stir in olives or capers – For a Mediterranean twist
• Include sautéed onions – Adds sweetness and body
• Top with parmesan or pecorino – For a creamy, salty finish
• Use as a pizza sauce – Spicy and flavorful upgrade
• Blend the sauce for smoothness – If you prefer a silkier texture
• Swap red wine for white – For a lighter taste

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce

• Refrigerate in airtight container – Lasts up to 5 days
• Freeze in portions – Keeps well up to 3 months
• Label with date – Helps track freshness
• Avoid storing with pasta mixed in – Keeps texture best when stored separately

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Arrabbiata Sauce

• Stovetop method – Heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally
• Microwave method – Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals
• Add a splash of water if needed – To loosen if sauce thickened too much
• Stir before serving – Redistributes oil and seasonings

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx. ½ cup)

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 420mg

A bold, low-carb sauce that adds heat and richness to any dish.

FAQs

What makes arrabbiata sauce spicy?

The spice comes from crushed red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount to control the heat level to your liking.

Can I freeze Ina Garten’s arrabbiata sauce?

Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

What is the difference between marinara and arrabbiata sauce?

Arrabbiata sauce is a spicier version of marinara, made with red pepper flakes for heat. Marinara is milder and usually contains less spice.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned in arrabbiata sauce?

Yes, but peel and seed them first. Use about 3 pounds of fresh tomatoes to replace two 28-ounce cans.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Arrabbiata Sauce is a must-have in any home cook’s recipe box. With just a few ingredients and a bit of simmering, it delivers bold, spicy flavor that works beautifully in pasta dishes, with proteins, or on its own. It’s proof that simplicity, when done well, can be absolutely delicious.

Print