27 Irresistible Pasta Sauce Recipes for Any Occasion

ByMarigold Banks Updated
Pasta Sauce Recipes - Guyo's Guide

Love pasta? 

The secret to a great dish is the perfect sauce! 

In this article, we’ll share some simple and tasty pasta sauce recipes you can make at home. 

From classic tomato to creamy Alfredo, there’s something for everyone. 

Let’s get started!

1. Classic Marinara

A photo of a deep red pasta sauce with a smooth yet slightly chunky texture. The sauce is served in a white ceramic bowl, placed on a bright plain white kitchen countertop. The surface of the sauce glistens with a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprig of fresh basil rests on top. A wooden spoon with traces of sauce lies next to the bowl, completing the rustic presentation.
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A timeless favorite, marinara sauce is simple yet bursting with flavor. 

Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil, then add crushed tomatoes, oregano, and a pinch of salt. 

Let it simmer for 20–30 minutes to develop a rich, robust taste. 

Stir in fresh basil at the end for an herby finish. Serve over spaghetti, use in lasagna, or as a dipping sauce for warm, crusty bread.

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2. Creamy Alfredo

A photo of a skillet filled with a pale white pasta sauce on a white kitchen countertop. The sauce has a glossy sheen from the melted butter and heavy cream, with specks of freshly ground black pepper visible throughout. A wooden spoon is resting in the sauce. Nearby, there is a folded linen napkin.
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Silky and indulgent, Alfredo sauce is made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. 

Melt the butter, stir in cream, and slowly add grated Parmesan until smooth. 

A pinch of nutmeg enhances its depth, while black pepper adds subtle spice. 

This decadent sauce pairs best with fettuccine, coating each strand beautifully. 

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or toss in sautéed mushrooms for a savory twist.

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Recommended Article: 27 Creamy Pasta Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings

3. Pesto Genovese

A photo of a vibrant green pasta sauce with a smooth yet slightly textured consistency sitting in a rustic mortar. The mortar is placed on a bright, plain white kitchen countertop. The sauce contains crushed pine nuts, grated Parmesan, and tiny bits of basil. A wooden pestle is inside the mortar, and there are droplets of olive oil on the surface of the sauce.
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Vibrant and aromatic, pesto is a blend of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil. 

Simply pulse the ingredients in a food processor until smooth, adjusting oil for consistency. 

The bright, garlicky taste enhances pasta, sandwiches, and even roasted vegetables. 

Toss it with hot spaghetti, spread it on a grilled cheese, or mix with ricotta for a creamy, herby dip that’s packed with flavor.

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4. Bolognese

A photo of a thick, meaty pasta sauce with a rich reddish-brown hue in a cast-iron pan on a bright plain white kitchen countertop. The sauce has visible chunks of ground beef and finely diced carrots, celery, and onions. A wooden ladle is partially submerged in the sauce. A loaf of crusty bread and a small bowl of grated Parmesan are also present. The background is clean and simple.
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Rich, meaty, and deeply comforting, Bolognese sauce is a slow-cooked Italian classic. 

Ground beef or pork simmers with onions, carrots, celery, and tomatoes for hours, developing a luscious texture. 

A splash of red wine enhances its complexity, while milk softens the acidity of tomatoes. 

Serve over pappardelle or tagliatelle, and top with freshly grated Parmesan for an authentic, heartwarming dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners.

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5. Arrabbiata

A photo of a spicy red pasta sauce in a deep white cast-iron skillet. The sauce has a glossy, slightly oily surface and is adorned with small flecks of crushed red pepper. The skillet sits on a bright plain white kitchen countertop.
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If you love spice, arrabbiata is the sauce for you. 

This fiery tomato-based sauce gets its heat from crushed red pepper flakes. 

Garlic and olive oil add depth, while ripe tomatoes balance the bold flavors. Simmer everything together until thick and fragrant. 

Traditionally served with penne, it’s a quick and flavorful sauce that adds a spicy kick to any pasta dish. 

Top with fresh parsley for contrast.

6. Vodka Sauce

A photo of a creamy, orange-pink pasta sauce with a smooth and luscious consistency in a cast-iron skillet. The sauce has a slight sheen from the addition of heavy cream and is garnished with a dusting of grated Parmesan. The skillet is placed on a bright plain white kitchen countertop. A small glass of vodka and a bunch of fresh basil leaves are placed beside the bowl, adding to the refined aesthetic.
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A creamy, pink-hued sauce that’s both tangy and indulgent, vodka sauce combines crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and a splash of vodka. 

The alcohol helps release hidden flavors in the tomatoes, adding depth to the sauce. 

Sauté onions and garlic, deglaze with vodka, then stir in tomatoes and cream. 

Serve with rigatoni or penne, and sprinkle with Parmesan and fresh basil for an elevated pasta experience.

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7. Carbonara

A medium shot of a round pot filled with a silky, pale golden pasta sauce with a creamy consistency. The sauce is ladled into the pot on a bright plain white kitchen countertop. Tiny flecks of black pepper and melted Pecorino Romano cheese create a speckled effect. Crispy cooked pieces of pancetta are scattered over the surface.
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This Roman classic is rich, creamy, and made without cream. 

The secret? Eggs, Pecorino Romano, and pancetta. 

Cook the pancetta until crispy, then toss hot pasta with whisked eggs and cheese, letting the heat create a silky, luscious sauce. 

Black pepper adds a sharp, spicy contrast to the creamy coating. 

Use spaghetti or bucatini for the best texture, and serve immediately for maximum flavor and freshness.

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8. Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto

A photo of a deep red pasta sauce with a glossy finish, served in a rustic earthenware bowl on a plain white kitchen countertop. The sauce is slightly textured and contains small chunks of sun-dried tomatoes and crushed nuts. A drizzle of olive oil shimmers on top, and a wooden spoon leans against the bowl.
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A bold and tangy twist on traditional pesto, this sauce blends sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil into a smooth, intensely flavored mixture. 

Toasted almonds or walnuts add nuttiness, while a splash of lemon brightens the sauce. 

Toss with warm pasta, spread on sandwiches, or drizzle over grilled vegetables. 

It’s a delicious way to add a punch of umami and depth to your dishes.

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9. Cacio e Pepe

A photo of a creamy white pasta sauce with a speckled appearance from freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. Next to the bowl, there is a bowl of mixed spaghetti with the white sauce. The sauce is thick yet smooth, clinging to the spoon resting nearby. The sauce and spaghetti are placed on a bright plain white kitchen countertop.
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Simple yet incredibly flavorful, cacio e pepe relies on just three ingredients: pasta, Pecorino Romano, and black pepper. 

The key is emulsifying cheese with starchy pasta water to create a smooth, creamy sauce. 

Freshly cracked pepper adds a robust, spicy bite, balancing the sharpness of the cheese. 

Best served with tonnarelli or spaghetti, this Roman favorite proves that minimal ingredients can create maximum flavor.

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10. Lemon Butter Sauce

A top-down photograph of a bowl of lemon butter sauce. The sauce is a rich, golden-yellow color with a slightly glossy surface and small flecks of finely chopped green herbs, possibly parsley, are sprinkled across it. A vintage silver spoon with an intricate handle design is partially submerged in the sauce, reflecting light on its slightly tarnished surface. The bowl is placed on a marble countertop, and a bowl of angel hair pasta mixed with the sauce is next to it. The image conveys a fresh, homemade quality with a warm, inviting color palette.
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Light and zesty, lemon butter sauce is perfect for warm-weather pasta dishes. 

Melt butter, add fresh garlic, and stir in lemon juice and zest for a bright, citrusy kick. 

A pinch of red pepper flakes adds warmth, while fresh parsley enhances freshness. 

Toss with angel hair pasta for a simple yet elegant meal. 

Add shrimp, scallops, or grilled chicken for a protein-packed variation that’s restaurant-worthy.

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11. Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

A photo of a smooth, velvety pasta sauce with a deep orange-red color in a round white dish, served next to a bowl of fettuccine pasta mixed with sauce. The dish is placed on a bright plain white kitchen countertop. The glossy surface reflects the light, and a few small flecks of blackened roasted red peppers are visible. A wooden spoon with a swirl of sauce rests next to the dish.
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Smoky, slightly sweet, and luxuriously creamy, roasted red pepper sauce is a unique alternative to tomato-based sauces. 

Blend roasted red peppers with garlic, olive oil, and a touch of cream or ricotta for richness. 

The result is a velvety, colorful sauce that pairs well with penne, fettuccine, or even gnocchi. 

Add toasted almonds for extra depth, or mix in feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

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12. Brown Butter Sage Sauce

A close-up photograph of a pot with brown butter and sage sauce in the process of cooking. The surface of the sauce is a mixture of golden-brown butter with foamy bubbles forming on top, creating a swirling pattern. Several fresh sage leaves, partially submerged in the butter, have turned a slightly darker green, some showing crisped, golden edges as they fry. The butter’s color varies from deep amber to lighter golden hues, with small specks likely representing browned milk solids. The texture of the foam contrasts with the smooth, glossy surface of the butter. The image captures the rich, aromatic nature of the sauce, emphasizing the detailed interaction of butter and herbs.
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Nutty, aromatic, and rich, brown butter sage sauce is a classic pairing for ravioli and gnocchi. 

Cook butter until golden brown and fragrant, then toss in fresh sage leaves to infuse the butter with earthy flavor. 

A sprinkle of Parmesan and a touch of lemon juice add balance. 

This simple sauce is especially perfect for fall dishes, bringing warmth and depth to every bite.

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13. Gorgonzola Cream Sauce

A top-down photograph of a creamy gorgonzola sauce in a stainless steel saucepan with a black handle, resting on a white marble countertop. The sauce is thick, smooth, and pale off-white with tiny flecks of finely chopped herbs evenly dispersed throughout. A large silver spoon is partially submerged in the saucepan, lifting a generous portion of the sauce, which clings to the spoon’s surface. A soft, light gray kitchen towel is draped partially into the frame from the bottom left corner, adding a subtle texture to the scene. The overall color palette is neutral and light, emphasizing the rich, creamy texture of the sauce.
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Bold and decadent, Gorgonzola cream sauce is a must for blue cheese lovers. 

Melt butter, add cream, and stir in crumbled Gorgonzola until smooth. 

The result is a rich, tangy sauce with a creamy consistency that pairs beautifully with short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli. 

Walnuts add a delightful crunch, while a drizzle of honey balances the sharpness. 

Serve with a glass of white wine.

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14. Pomodoro Sauce

A photo of a bright red pasta sauce with a smooth, slightly chunky consistency served in a round white ceramic bowl. Next to the bowl is a ceramic plate with penne pasta mixed with the red sauce. The plate is placed on a bright plain white kitchen countertop. The surface glistens with a touch of olive oil, and a fresh basil leaf sits elegantly in the center. A wooden spoon, stained with sauce, rests nearby, enhancing the fresh and simple aesthetic.
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Lighter and fresher than marinara, pomodoro sauce highlights the natural sweetness of tomatoes. 

Sauté garlic in olive oil, then add crushed or fresh tomatoes, simmering until thickened. 

Stir in fresh basil and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness. 

This sauce is best with spaghetti or penne, making for a quick and flavorful meal that tastes like summer in every bite.

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15. Mushroom Cream Sauce

A close-up photograph of a creamy mushroom sauce in a white skillet. The sauce is thick and smooth, with a light beige color, evenly coating the sliced mushrooms. The mushrooms are a mix of golden-brown, pan-seared pieces with darker edges and lighter, tender slices. Small, translucent bits of sautéed onion are visible throughout the sauce. Freshly chopped parsley is sprinkled across the surface, adding a pop of green color. The sauce has a glossy sheen, with tiny bubbles and specks of black pepper and seasoning distributed throughout. The skillet's curved edge is partially visible in the bottom left corner. The background is blurred, keeping the focus on the rich, creamy texture and well-cooked mushrooms in the dish.
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Earthy and comforting, mushroom cream sauce features sautéed mushrooms cooked in butter, garlic, and a splash of white wine for depth. 

Add heavy cream and Parmesan for a velvety finish. 

The umami-rich flavors make this sauce perfect for fettuccine, pappardelle, or as a luxurious topping for steak or chicken. 

Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for an extra layer of freshness and aroma.

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16. Puttanesca

A photo of a rustic earthenware bowl filled with a bold, deep red pasta sauce. The sauce has a slightly chunky texture and is made with tomatoes, black olives, and capers. The bowl is placed on a bright plain white kitchen countertop. A wooden spoon coated in sauce leans against the bowl.
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Bold and briny, puttanesca sauce packs a punch with capers, olives, anchovies, and garlic cooked in a rich tomato base. 

The result is a deeply savory sauce with complex umami flavors. 

The saltiness of the olives and anchovies is perfectly balanced by the acidity of tomatoes. 

Serve over spaghetti for a quick, flavorful dinner with Mediterranean flair. 

A pinch of chili flakes adds a spicy kick.

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17. Ricotta and Herb Sauce

A close-up photograph of a glass bowl containing a freshly blended, creamy herbed ricotta mixture. The mixture has a slightly grainy yet smooth texture, with finely blended basil and green herbs evenly distributed throughout the pale, off-white ricotta. The background features a white kitchen countertop, keeping the focus on the texture and details of the ricotta.
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Light and creamy, ricotta and herb sauce offers a fresh alternative to heavier cream sauces. 

Blend ricotta cheese with olive oil, lemon zest, and fresh herbs like basil and parsley for a smooth, flavorful sauce. 

It pairs beautifully with warm pasta, spreading evenly for a luscious, velvety coating. 

This sauce works especially well with delicate pasta shapes like cavatelli or orecchiette. 

Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a gentle kick.

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18. Garlic and Olive Oil (Aglio e Olio)

A close-up photograph of a bowl of spaghetti aglio e olio. The spaghetti is golden yellow, coated in a light layer of oil, and intertwined with thinly sliced sautéed garlic pieces that have a slightly translucent, golden hue. Small red pepper flakes are evenly distributed throughout the dish, adding a touch of spice. Freshly chopped green parsley is sprinkled over the pasta, contrasting with the warm tones of the spaghetti. A stainless steel fork is partially submerged in the pasta, its polished surface reflecting light. The bowl is white with a black rim, and its clean, minimalistic design emphasizes the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. The background is stark white, isolating the bowl and its contents, making the details of the spaghetti aglio e olio stand out.
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Aglio e olio is a simple yet flavorful Neapolitan classic. 

Sauté sliced garlic in extra virgin olive oil until golden, then toss with spaghetti and a pinch of red pepper flakes. 

The key is allowing the garlic to infuse the oil without burning, creating a rich, aromatic base. 

Finish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for an effortless dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

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19. Spicy Sausage Ragu

A photo of a thick, deep red pasta sauce with visible chunks of crumbled sausage served in a large white bowl. Beside it, a separate bowl holds cooked penne mixed with the sauce, both placed on a bright white kitchen countertop. The sauce has a rich, hearty texture, with hints of rendered fat glistening on the surface. A wooden ladle, with a spoonful of sauce, rests against the bowl.
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A hearty, deeply flavorful sauce, spicy sausage ragu combines crumbled Italian sausage, tomatoes, garlic, and a splash of red wine. 

Let it simmer until thick and rich, allowing the spices to meld beautifully. 

The bold, meaty flavors pair well with sturdy pasta like rigatoni or pappardelle. 

Top with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped basil for extra depth. 

Perfect for cozy nights when you need comfort food.

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20. Pistachio Pesto

A photo of a rich, green pasta sauce with a slightly grainy consistency from crushed pistachios filling a small marble bowl. Next to it, a bowl of fettuccine mixed with the sauce sits on a bright, plain white kitchen countertop. The sauce glistens with a drizzle of olive oil. A wooden pestle rests in the marble bowl, bearing remnants of the freshly blended sauce.
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A unique twist on traditional pesto, pistachio pesto is nutty, creamy, and slightly sweet. 

Blend toasted pistachios with Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil for a smooth, flavorful sauce. 

Its vibrant green color and rich texture make it a fantastic pairing for spaghetti or fusilli. It also works beautifully as a dip or spread. 

Garnish with extra crushed pistachios for a delightful crunch.

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21. Sweet Corn Sauce

A creamy, golden-yellow pasta sauce with a smooth, slightly thickened texture is presented in a round ceramic dish. Next to it is a bowl of fettuccine mixed with the sauce, placed on a bright, plain white kitchen countertop. Small flecks of black pepper and finely chopped chives are visible throughout the sauce, and a spoonful is drizzled over the edge of the dish.
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Creamy and slightly sweet, this sauce is made by blending fresh corn with butter, garlic, and a touch of cream. 

The natural sweetness of the corn balances well with a hint of chili flakes for contrast. 

Toss with ravioli or fettuccine for a summer-inspired dish. Add fresh basil and a sprinkle of 

Parmesan to enhance the flavors. 

It’s an unexpected but delicious pasta sauce worth trying.

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22. Walnut Sauce (Salsa di Noci)

A photo of a nutty pasta sauce with a beige, slightly textured appearance served in a decorative white ceramic ramekin. Next to it is a bowl of trofie pasta, its signature short, twisted shape coated in the sauce, placed on a bright, plain white kitchen countertop. A drizzle of olive oil glistens on the surface, and a few crushed walnut pieces are sprinkled on top. A small wooden spoon with a scoop of sauce rests beside the dish.
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A creamy, nutty Ligurian sauce, salsa di noci is made from blended walnuts, garlic, milk, and Parmesan. 

The result is a rich, slightly sweet sauce with a velvety texture. 

Traditionally paired with trofie pasta, this sauce also works well with gnocchi or pappardelle. 

A drizzle of olive oil and a touch of lemon juice brighten the dish. 

Serve with a glass of white wine for balance.

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23. Cilantro-Lime Avocado Sauce

A photo of a vibrant green pasta sauce with a creamy, airy texture filling a shallow glass dish. Next to it, a bowl of spaghetti mixed with the sauce sits on a bright, plain white kitchen countertop. The glossy surface reflects the light. Thin slices of fresh lime and a few cilantro leaves are delicately arranged on top. A silver spoon, coated in the sauce, rests beside the dish.
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Refreshing and vibrant, this creamy green sauce is a fusion of Italian and Latin flavors. 

Blend ripe avocado with lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and fresh cilantro for a smooth, silky texture. 

The tangy, herby flavors pair well with spaghetti or fusilli. 

It’s also a great addition to pasta salads, offering a bright, creamy contrast to fresh veggies. 

Add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

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24. Eggplant and Tomato Sauce

A photo of a rich, deep red pasta sauce with a chunky, rustic consistency served in a white pot. Next to the dish, a ceramic bowl of cooked penne mixed with the sauce sits on a bright, plain white kitchen countertop. Small cubes of roasted eggplant are mixed throughout, their deep purple skins providing contrast. A drizzle of olive oil glistens on top.
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A rustic Sicilian-inspired sauce, this recipe features slow-cooked eggplant in a garlicky tomato base. 

The eggplant softens into a silky texture, adding depth and heartiness without meat. 

Toss with penne or rigatoni for a comforting vegetarian dish. 

Fresh basil and a sprinkle of ricotta salata complete the dish. 

For an extra layer of flavor, roast the eggplant before adding it to the sauce.

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25. Spicy Thai Peanut Sauce

A photo of a smooth, glossy pasta sauce with a warm, golden-brown hue in a round white bowl. Next to it, a separate bowl holds spaghetti mixed with the sauce, all placed on a bright, plain white kitchen countertop. Crushed peanuts are sprinkled over the surface, adding texture. A wooden spoon, coated in sauce, rests against the bowl.
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A fusion of Italian and Asian flavors, this sauce is creamy, nutty, and slightly spicy. 

Peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili paste create a luscious, savory-sweet base. 

Toss with rice noodles or spaghetti for a Thai-inspired pasta dish. 

Top with crushed peanuts, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges for extra texture and brightness. 

It’s an unexpected yet addictively delicious twist on pasta night.

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26. Chimichurri Pesto

A photo of a vivid green pasta sauce with a slightly chunky, herbaceous consistency. The sauce is served in a rustic stoneware bowl. Next to it, a bowl of spaghetti mixed with the sauce sits on a bright, plain white kitchen countertop. The surface glistens with olive oil, and a few red pepper flakes add contrast. A small wooden spoon rests inside the sauce bowl.
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Herby, tangy, and slightly spicy, this sauce blends chimichurri flavors with a pesto-like consistency. 

Fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and chili flakes create a bold, vibrant sauce. 

Toss with spaghetti for a zesty pasta dish or use it as a topping for grilled meats. 

The acidity from the vinegar adds an exciting twist, making this sauce stand out from traditional pesto.

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27. Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Sauce

A photo of a small ceramic bowl containing a thick, creamy pasta sauce with a warm, golden-brown color. The sauce has a marbled effect due to the swirls of melted goat cheese. On top of the sauce, there are a few crispy, caramelized onion strands. Next to the bowl, there is a bowl of cooked penne mixed with the sauce. The bowls sit on a bright, plain white kitchen countertop.
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Sweet and tangy, this sauce features slow-cooked caramelized onions blended with creamy goat cheese for a luxurious texture. 

The onions develop deep, rich flavors, which contrast beautifully with the tangy, slightly sharp taste of the cheese. 

Toss with penne or rigatoni for a gourmet-style meal. 

A sprinkle of toasted walnuts or crispy prosciutto takes this dish to the next level, adding crunch and saltiness.

Wrap Up

With so many pasta sauce recipes to try, dinner will never be boring again! 

Whether you love creamy, spicy, or classic flavors, there’s a sauce for every mood. 

So grab your favorite pasta, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite. 

Your next best meal is just a sauce away—happy cooking!

Pasta Sauce Recipes
Marigold Banks's avatar
Marigold Banks

Marigold Banks is a food writer at Guyo's Guide. With a rich background as a chef and event planner, she brings a unique culinary perspective and flair for detail to her articles. Marigold's passion for food and expert insights make her a valued voice on our blog.

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