Pasta lovers rejoice! There’s nothing quite like a rich and creamy homemade pasta sauce to elevate your favorite dish. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered with this collection of 20 creamy homemade pasta sauces. From timeless favorites like Alfredo and marinara to innovative twists like truffle oil and mushroom cream, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In the following pages, we’ll take a culinary journey through Italy and beyond, exploring the rich flavors and aromas that make each sauce truly special. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal solution, these creamy pasta sauces are guaranteed to become new family favorites. So let’s get started on this delicious adventure!
Classic Basil Pesto Sauce with Pine Nuts
A flavorful and aromatic sauce made with fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic. 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 olive oil through the top. Process until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time:
– 5-10 minutes to prepare
– No cooking required, as this is a raw sauce
Rich and Velvety Alfredo Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this decadent and creamy Alfredo sauce. Made with just a few ingredients, it’s surprisingly simple to make and is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
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, plus more for serving
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce with Red Pepper Flakes
Get ready to add a bold and spicy kick to your pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce! This classic Italian recipe is quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
4. Add the red pepper flakes and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tomato Vodka Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy tomato vodka sauce, infused with the subtle flavors of vodka.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, vodka, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
7. Serve the creamy tomato vodka sauce over cooked pasta of your choice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Herb White Wine Sauce
Roasted Garlic and Herb White Wine Sauce Recipe
Elevate your pasta dishes or use as a dipping sauce with this rich and flavorful white wine sauce infused with the deep taste of roasted garlic and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 garlic cloves
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the garlic cloves and place them on a piece of aluminum foil. Drizzle with olive oil and fold the foil to create a packet.
3. Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and mashed.
4. In a medium saucepan, combine the roasted garlic, parsley, thyme, white wine, and heavy cream or half-and-half.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Parmesan Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy sauce featuring sun-dried tomatoes and the perfect balance of tangy parmesan cheese. This recipe is quick, easy, and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add olive oil, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Marinara Sauce with Fresh Basil
This classic Italian sauce is a staple for any pasta lover. This recipe uses fresh basil and simple ingredients to create a flavorful marinara sauce that’s perfect for topping spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 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, until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Romesco Sauce
Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Romesco Sauce Recipe
This vibrant and flavorful sauce is a twist on the classic Spanish romesco, incorporating roasted red peppers for added depth and sweetness. It’s perfect as a dip or accompaniment to grilled meats, vegetables, and flatbreads.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes or until charred, turning occasionally.
3. Remove skin, seeds, and membranes from roasted peppers; chop into small pieces.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted peppers, parsley, cilantro, walnuts, garlic, sherry vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Blend until smooth, adding olive oil as needed to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (including roasting time)
Truffle Oil and Mushroom Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy sauce featuring the earthy flavor of truffles and the savory taste of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon truffle oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken for 5-7 minutes.
7. Stir in truffle oil.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce with Fresh Thyme
Brighten up your dishes with this zesty and aromatic sauce, perfect for pasta, vegetables, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped thyme. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Use this sauce as a finishing touch for your favorite dishes, such as pasta, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats. Refrigerate any leftovers for up to 1 week.
Brown Butter and Sage Sauce
Elevate your dishes with this rich and savory sauce, perfect for accompanying roasted meats, vegetables, or as a dip for bread.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped sage, garlic, and brown sugar. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
3. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Let the sauce cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gorgonzola Sauce
Transform your pasta dishes, pizzas, or vegetables with this rich and savory caramelized onion and Gorgonzola sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they caramelize and turn golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add the granulated sugar to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Tomato Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and smoky tomato cream sauce, infused with the deep flavors of chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (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. Add chipotle peppers, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Fresh Herb and Olive Oil Pasta Sauce
Savor the flavors of Italy with this light and refreshing pasta sauce made with fresh herbs and high-quality olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine chopped parsley, basil, and garlic.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the herb mixture and stir to combine.
3. Cook over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes or until the herbs have softened slightly and the mixture is fragrant.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Avocado and Spinach Pesto
This vibrant green pesto is a game-changer for pasta, pizza, or as a dip for veggies. With the creaminess of avocado and the nutty flavor of spinach, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, spinach, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer pesto to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe.
Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage Sauce
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the earthy notes of sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4-6 fresh sage leaves, chopped
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the squash mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. While the squash is roasting, heat the chopped sage leaves and sliced onion in a skillet over medium heat until fragrant.
6. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
7. Remove the squash from the oven and toss with the sage sauce.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Sauce
Elevate your appetizers with this refreshing and flavorful combination of smoked salmon, creamy dill sauce, and crispy crackers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag of crackers (e.g., Ritz or water crackers)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, chopped dill, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Fold in the flaked smoked salmon until just combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, accompanied by crackers.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 10 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
– Total time: 40 minutes
Roasted Eggplant and Tahini Garlic Sauce
Satisfy your cravings with this flavorful and healthy side dish, where the natural sweetness of roasted eggplant is elevated by a creamy tahini garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup tahini paste
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange eggplant slices on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the eggplant, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
6. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini paste, garlic, lemon juice, and water.
7. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
8. Serve roasted eggplant with the tahini garlic sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Tomato Ragu
A hearty and flavorful ragu that combines spicy sausage with fresh tomatoes, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup of beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pot.
3. Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes, beef broth, and dried oregano to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer the ragu for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow-Cooked Bolognese Sauce with Beef and Pork
A rich and flavorful Italian-inspired sauce made with ground beef and pork, simmered to perfection over low heat for hours. Perfect for pasta, meatballs, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the skillet; cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine, beef broth, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker; cover and cook for 6-8 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these 20 creamy homemade pasta sauce recipes, perfect for every occasion. From classic pesto to bold and spicy options, there’s something for everyone. Discover new favorite sauces like Truffle Oil and Mushroom Cream or Roasted Garlic and Herb White Wine, or revisit old favorites like Alfredo or Marinara. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and bright or rich and indulgent, these recipes are sure to satisfy your pasta cravings.
Leave a Reply