Pasta lovers, rejoice! Creating a delicious pasta dish doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these 18 effortless and simple pasta sauce recipes, you’ll be whipping up mouth-watering meals in no time. From classic combinations like garlic butter parmesan and creamy tomato basil, to bold flavors like spicy arrabbiata and sun-dried tomato cream, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a busy bee looking for quick solutions or a culinary enthusiast seeking new inspiration, our collection of recipes is sure to satisfy your pasta cravings. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of pasta sauces that are not only easy on the taste buds but also ridiculously simple to make. So, let’s get started and explore the endless possibilities of pasta sauce making!
Garlic Butter Parmesan Pasta Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy sauce, packed with the flavors of garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, garnished with parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful sauce that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil. This creamy sauce is perfect for coating spaghetti, linguine, or any other type of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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. Add the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, butter, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot over pasta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quick 5-Minute Marinara Sauce
Add a burst of flavor to your pasta dishes or pizza with this simple and speedy marinara sauce recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious and tangy sauce in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, stir in chopped fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
One-Pot Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this simple yet flavorful One-Pot Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce, packed with spicy kick and rich tomato flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, parsley, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld together.
5. If using chicken broth, add it during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic White Wine Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or grilled meats with this bright and citrusy sauce. A perfect blend of tangy lemon, savory garlic, and rich white wine.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Pour in white wine, lemon juice, and broth. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm over pasta, grilled meats, or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Transform your dishes with this sweet and smoky roasted red pepper sauce, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 red bell peppers
– 2 cloves of garlic, peeled
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the red peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
4. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and place the flesh in a blender or food processor with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (including roasting time)
Yield: About 2 cups of sauce
Simple Aglio e Olio (Garlic & Oil)
This classic Italian recipe is a staple of any pasta dish, elevating the simplest ingredients to create a rich and flavorful sauce. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and aromatic accompaniment to your favorite noodles.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4-6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Remove from heat and add reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with the garlic and oil mixture. Season with salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Light Ricotta Herb Pasta Sauce
A creamy and flavorful sauce that’s perfect for springtime pasta dishes. This recipe combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the brightness of fresh herbs, creating a delicious and light accompaniment to your favorite noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the ricotta cheese, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve over cooked pasta and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Cashew Alfredo Sauce
A rich and creamy vegan alternative to traditional Alfredo sauce, made with cashews instead of dairy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the cashews, then add them to a blender with garlic, lemon juice, water, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Classic No-Cook Fresh Tomato Sauce
This refreshing summer sauce is made with just a few simple ingredients and requires no cooking at all! Perfect as a topping for pasta, pizza, or as a dip for vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large, ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Just before serving, stir in some chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
4. Serve immediately over pasta, pizza, or as a dip.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready in just 30 minutes without cooking.
Buttery Mushroom Garlic Sauce
Elevate your meals with this decadent sauce, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip. This easy-to-make recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms, pungency of garlic, and creaminess of butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. If using white wine, add it to the pan and cook until almost completely reduced, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful sun-dried tomato cream sauce. With a blend of creamy goodness, tangy tomatoes, and savory spices, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and oregano. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto alla Genovese (Basil Pesto)
This classic Italian sauce from the Liguria region is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, made with fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. With its vibrant green color and rich flavor, pesto is a versatile condiment perfect for pasta dishes, pizzas, and more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts or almonds)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded is best)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, garlic, and pine nuts. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly smooth.
2. Add Parmesan cheese and process until the cheese is fully incorporated.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. Process until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of processing time.
Simple Carbonara-Inspired Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy sauce, inspired by the classic Italian carbonara recipe. This simple and flavorful sauce is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in the egg yolk and flour.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
30-Minute Bolognese-Style Sauce
This 30-minute recipe is a simplified version of the classic Italian sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep work, you’ll have a rich and flavorful sauce to serve over pasta, rice, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Creamy Avocado Spinach Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or veggies with this creamy and nutritious sauce, featuring the richness of avocado and the earthiness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the spinach, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips:
– Use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.
– Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your desired level of brightness.
– This sauce is perfect for pasta, vegetables, or using as a dip.
Olive and Caper Mediterranean Sauce
This rich and flavorful sauce is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, perfect for accompanying grilled meats, vegetables, or as a dip for pita bread. With its savory blend of olives, capers, garlic, and lemon, this sauce will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced olives, capers, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Stir in the olive oil until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready to use straight from the fridge.
Enjoy your delicious Olive and Caper Mediterranean Sauce!
Sweet Corn and Bacon Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or vegetables with this rich and creamy sauce featuring sweet corn and crispy bacon. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears)
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the crumbled bacon, mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover the simplicity of pasta sauces with these effortless recipes. From classic combinations like garlic butter parmesan to creamy tomato basil, and from quick marinara to spicy arrabbiata, there’s something for every taste. You’ll also find unique options like lemon garlic white wine, roasted red pepper, and vegan cashew alfredo. Whether you’re looking for a light ricotta herb or a rich buttery mushroom garlic sauce, this collection has it all. Say goodbye to complicated cooking and hello to deliciously easy pasta dishes with these simple yet flavorful recipes.
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