This Gordon Ramsay–style spaghetti sauce is rich, smooth, and deeply flavorful, inspired by the simple, ingredient-driven approach used by Gordon Ramsay. It focuses on high-quality tomatoes, gentle simmering, and proper seasoning to build layers of flavor without overpowering the pasta. This sauce is perfect for classic spaghetti, but it also works beautifully with penne, linguine, or as a base for other Italian dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, very finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely grated
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can (28 oz) high-quality crushed tomatoes or whole San Marzano tomatoes (crushed by hand)
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 small handful fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for finishing)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Build the Flavor Base
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.Add the finely chopped onion and cook gently for 5–6 minutes until soft and translucent, not browned.Stir in the grated carrot and cook for another 2 minutes.Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Concentrate the Tomato Flavor
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes until it darkens slightly and smells rich.This step deepens the tomato flavor.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, chili flakes, and sugar if using.Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Simmer Slowly
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors concentrate.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Tear fresh basil leaves and stir them into the sauce.Taste and adjust seasoning.Add butter if using for a glossy, restaurant-style finish.
Cooking Notes
- Finely chopping the onion is key for a smooth sauce
- Do not rush the simmering process
- Low heat prevents bitterness
- High-quality tomatoes make a big difference
- Butter at the end adds silkiness without heaviness
Variation
- Add a splash of red wine after tomato paste for deeper flavor
- Blend the sauce for a smoother texture
- Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for a meat sauce
- Use fresh thyme and oregano instead of dried
- Add a Parmesan rind while simmering for extra richness
Tips
- Season gradually and taste often
- If sauce is too thick, add pasta water
- If too acidic, add a small pinch of sugar
- Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days
- Sauce improves in flavor the next day
Serving Suggestions
- Toss directly with hot spaghetti and finish with Parmesan
- Use as a base for lasagna or baked pasta
- Spoon over meatballs or chicken
- Serve with crusty bread
- Pair with a simple green salad
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Info (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 160
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 9g
Sugar: 8g
FAQs
Is this the exact Gordon Ramsay recipe?
- This is a Gordon Ramsay–style sauce inspired by his cooking philosophy, not an official restaurant recipe.
Can I freeze this sauce?
- Yes, it freezes very well for up to 3 months.
Why add carrot to the sauce?
- Carrot adds natural sweetness and balances acidity.
Can I make it smoother?
- Yes, blend with an immersion blender.
Does this work for other pasta?
- Absolutely, it works with most pasta shapes.
Conclusion
This Gordon Ramsay–style spaghetti sauce proves that great pasta doesn’t need complicated ingredients. With slow simmering, proper seasoning, and quality tomatoes, you get a bold, balanced sauce that tastes restaurant-worthy every time.