Cozy Up with Ravioli in Spicy Calabrian Chili Tomato Sauce

When the evening calls for comfort food that feels special but comes together quickly, this ravioli with spicy Calabrian chili tomato sauce answers the call. It’s a simple pantry-friendly recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a dish worthy of an Italian trattoria. The sauce simmers slowly, filling your kitchen with the aroma of garlic, basil, and a hint of red wine, while the Calabrian chili adds a subtle, smoky heat that wakes up the palate without overpowering the dish.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a cozy, satisfying meal on a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner that impresses without stress. Whether you choose cheese or meat ravioli, the sauce complements both beautifully, making it a versatile go-to in your recipe collection.

Ravioli served with spicy Calabrian chili tomato sauce and fresh basil

Ingredients That Bring This Dish to Life

This recipe relies on simple, accessible ingredients you likely have on hand or can easily find at Trader Joe’s. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1–2 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Calabrian Chili Peppers (optional for heat)

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 (28 oz) can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand

• Half a can of water (use the crushed tomato can for measurement)

• A generous handful of fresh basil, torn

• A splash of red wine

• Salt, to taste

• Ravioli of your choice (cheese or meat ravioli both work well)

  
  

The combination of crushed and whole peeled tomatoes gives the sauce a rich texture with a bit of chunkiness that feels homemade. The fresh basil adds brightness, while the red wine deepens the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Sauce

The magic of this dish lies in the sauce, which is easy to make but requires a bit of patience to develop its full flavor.

1. Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step builds the sauce’s base flavor.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it.

4. If you like a little heat, add the Calabrian chili pepper sauce now. Let it bloom in the oil for a minute to release its smoky, spicy notes.

5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, hand-crushed whole peeled tomatoes, and half a can of water. Stir to combine.

6. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered. This slow simmer thickens the sauce and melds the flavors.

7. Add the torn fresh basil leaves and season with salt to taste. The basil adds a fresh herbal note that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

8. Pour in a splash of red wine and continue simmering until the alcohol cooks off and the sauce thickens to your liking, about 10–15 minutes.

   
   

While the sauce simmers, cook your ravioli according to the package instructions. Fresh or frozen ravioli both work well here.

Serving Suggestions and Tips

Once your ravioli is cooked and drained, toss it gently with the spicy Calabrian chili tomato sauce. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese if you like. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad rounds out the meal perfectly.

Here are a few tips to make this dish even better:

• Adjust the heat: If you prefer less spice, start with 1 tablespoon of Calabrian chili peppers or skip them entirely. For more heat, add extra or serve with chili flakes on the side.

• Wine pairing: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese pairs beautifully with this dish, echoing the splash of wine in the sauce.

• Make it vegetarian: Use cheese ravioli and vegetable broth instead of water for a richer sauce.

• Batch cooking: The sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes nicely. Make a big batch to save time on busy nights.

  
  

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Nights

This recipe shines because it uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to create something that feels homemade and indulgent. The Calabrian chili peppers add a unique flavor twist that elevates the sauce beyond a basic tomato sauce. Plus, ravioli cooks quickly, so you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

The slow simmering of the sauce allows the flavors to develop fully without much hands-on time. You can prepare the sauce while doing other things, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want comfort food fast.

Final Thoughts on Cozy Comfort Food