When it comes to cooking a quick and delicious meal, few options are as comforting and satisfying as a warm, flavorful bowl of pasta. But let’s be real – some nights, whipping up a complex sauce from scratch just isn’t in the cards. That’s why we’ve rounded up 18 easy simple pasta sauce recipes that’ll become your go-to’s for busy weeknights. From classic marinara to creamy Alfredo and spicy arrabbiata, these sauces are all quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these simple pasta sauce recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. And the best part? They can be ready in no time, leaving you more time to focus on the things that matter most – like spending quality time with family and friends, or simply enjoying a well-deserved break after a long day.
Classic Marinara Sauce
Classic Marinara Sauce Recipe
A fundamental building block of Italian cuisine, this simple yet flavorful marinara sauce is a staple for pasta dishes, pizza, and beyond. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying the rich flavors of Italy in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Tomato Sauce
A rich and flavorful sauce perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this classic Italian-inspired sauce that combines butter, cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic for a rich and velvety flavor.
Ingredients:
– 6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) 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 bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired. Serve warm over cooked pasta, chicken, or vegetables for a decadent and satisfying meal.
Quick Basil Pesto Sauce
Add a burst of fresh flavor to your pasta dishes, sandwiches, and snacks with this easy-to-make basil pesto sauce. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a delicious and aromatic condiment that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts or almonds)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly chopped.
2. Add Parmesan cheese and process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Transfer the pesto sauce to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None required! This sauce is ready in just a few minutes.
Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce
A classic Italian tomato sauce with a spicy kick, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and comes together quickly.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil and Garlic Aglio e Olio
This classic Italian recipe is a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an accompaniment to your favorite pasta. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 garlic cloves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the garlic cloves and slice them thinly.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
3. Add the sliced garlic to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes or until it starts to turn golden brown.
4. Continue cooking the garlic, stirring occasionally, until it’s deep golden brown and fragrant (about 12-15 minutes total).
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve immediately over pasta, vegetables, or as a side dish.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful sun-dried tomato cream sauce. With its bold flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
5. Serve the sauce warm over cooked pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Mushroom and Thyme Sauce
Elevate your meals with this effortless and flavorful sauce that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the subtlety of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the thyme sprigs and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes or until it has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic White Wine Sauce
Brighten up your pasta dishes or grilled meats with this zesty and aromatic Lemon Garlic White Wine Sauce. A perfect blend of citrusy freshness, savory garlic, and subtle wine undertones.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 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 minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly golden (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Pour in the white wine, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until reduced by half, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Elevate your dishes with this vibrant and flavorful sauce made from roasted red peppers. This sweet and smoky condiment is perfect for topping grilled meats, vegetables, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 red bell peppers
– 2 cloves of garlic, peeled
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon juice, zest, or other spices to suit your taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place red bell peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is blistered and charred.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Peel off skin, discarding it, and place peppers in blender or food processor.
6. Add garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper; blend until smooth.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Fresh Tomato and Basil Sauce
Savor the flavors of summer with this simple yet elegant sauce, perfect for topping pasta, pizza, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes), diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to break down.
4. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Brown Butter and Sage Sauce
This rich and savory sauce is a perfect accompaniment to pasta, roasted vegetables, or as a dip for bread. The nutty flavor of browned butter pairs beautifully with the earthy taste of sage.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon (15g) chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic, lemon zest, or other aromatics for added depth
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Continue cooking the butter until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in chopped sage leaves.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Parmesan Peppercorn Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy sauce, perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in. This Parmesan Peppercorn Sauce is a versatile condiment that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the black peppercorns and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
This creamy sauce is perfect for tossing with cooked pasta, serving over vegetables or as a dip for crudités. Enjoy!
Easy Vodka Sauce
Quickly elevate your pasta dishes with this simple and flavorful vodka sauce recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Pour in the vodka and stir to combine with the garlic and oil.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce by half, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Cream Sauce
This creamy sauce combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the earthy flavor of spinach, perfect for topping pasta dishes or using as a dip. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this delicious sauce in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using garlic, stir it in at this point.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
– Adjust the amount of cream to achieve your desired level of creaminess.
– This sauce is perfect for topping pasta dishes like fettuccine or ravioli, or using as a dip for vegetables.
Caramelized Onion and Balsamic Sauce
This sweet and savory sauce is perfect for elevating your next meal or serving as a condiment. With the deep flavors of caramelized onions and tangy balsamic vinegar, this sauce is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deep golden brown and caramelized.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the balsamic vinegar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving or storing.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Puttanesca Sauce with Capers and Olives
This classic Italian sauce originates from the streets of Naples, where it was once a favorite among local pasta vendors. With its bold flavors of capers, olives, garlic, and tomatoes, this recipe is perfect for elevating your pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced olives and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the capers and garlic; cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Serve: Toss with cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Avocado and Herb Pasta Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful sauce that combines the richness of avocado with the freshness of herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, basil, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
5. Combine cooked pasta and avocado sauce. If using Parmesan cheese, stir it in at this stage.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 18 easy and simple pasta sauce recipes perfect for busy weeknights! From classic Marinara to creamy Alfredo, spicy Arrabbiata to rich Parmesan Peppercorn, there’s something for everyone. Discover quick and flavorful sauces like Garlic Butter Tomato, Sun-Dried Tomato Cream, and Lemon Garlic White Wine. Try your hand at roasted red pepper or caramelized onion and balsamic vinegar-based sauces. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. Dive in and start cooking!
