If you’re looking for a dish that’s bold, fiery, and full of Italian soul, Penne Arrabbiata is the answer to your pasta cravings. This classic Roman recipe is all about simplicity—just pasta tossed in a zesty, garlicky tomato sauce that gets its signature kick from red pepper flakes. It’s a weeknight lifesaver and a comforting favorite that never fails to delight. Whether you’re new to Italian cooking or a seasoned pasta pro, Penne Arrabbiata is a must-have in your kitchen repertoire for those times when only something quick, spicy, and utterly delicious will do.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of Penne Arrabbiata comes from using everyday, fresh ingredients that bring the vibrant flavors of Italy right to your table. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s a punch of heat, a hint of sweetness, or a finishing touch of fresh herbs.
- 12 ounces penne pasta: This ridged noodle is perfect for capturing every bit of spicy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Choose extra-virgin for richer flavor and a beautiful sheen on your finished dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced: Sautéing sliced garlic releases aromatic depth without overwhelming sharpness.
- 1–2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to taste): The fiery heart of Penne Arrabbiata, add more or less depending on your spice preference.
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes: Opt for high-quality Italian tomatoes—they ensure a sweet, robust sauce every time.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning both your pasta water and your sauce for balance.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds mellow warmth that rounds out the sauce’s heat.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a subtle herbal note that makes the sauce pop.
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Stirred in at the end, basil provides brightness and that unmistakable Mediterranean aroma.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional): Sprinkle on top for a salty, creamy finish if you’re not keeping it vegan.
How to Make Penne Arrabbiata
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add your penne pasta. Cook until just al dente according to the package directions, which keeps the pasta toothsome and ready to soak up your sauce. Before draining, reserve about half a cup of the pasta water—it’s a secret trick for loosening your sauce later if needed. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you work on the sauce magic.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, warm your olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the sliced garlic and cook gently for 1–2 minutes. The goal is golden and fragrant, not browned or bitter. This step is all about infusing the oil with a mellow, complex garlic flavor that forms the backbone of every great Penne Arrabbiata.
Step 3: Ignite the Heat
Add your red pepper flakes directly into the sizzling oil and garlic mixture. Let them toast for about 30 seconds—this blooming step releases their spicy essence and infuses the oil with that classic Arrabbiata fire. Adjust the amount if you like it extra hot or more mild, but don’t skip this step if you want authentic flavor.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Give everything a good stir, making sure the spices are evenly distributed. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for 10–12 minutes. This reduces and thickens the sauce, intensifying its flavors while filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
Step 5: Marry the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne to your skillet straight into the luscious, spicy tomato sauce. Toss everything together over low heat, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too dense. This step ensures each piece of penne is glossy, well-seasoned, and perfectly coated. Stir in the fresh chopped basil just before serving for a final burst of color and freshness.
How to Serve Penne Arrabbiata
Garnishes
Penne Arrabbiata is stunning with just a touch of simplicity. A handful of torn fresh basil leaves on top brings fresh aroma and color, while a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese (if you’re not strictly vegan) adds creamy, salty depth that balances the heat.
Side Dishes
Serve Penne Arrabbiata with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a platter of roasted Italian vegetables. A slice of garlicky toasted bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of sauce. For a heartier meal, pair it with a simple bean salad or marinated olives.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Penne Arrabbiata in small bowls as part of a pasta tasting menu, or pile it onto a big family-style platter for a dramatic table centerpiece. For an extra-special touch, top each serving with a drizzle of herby olive oil or a scattering of toasted pine nuts for crunch and richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Penne Arrabbiata keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making lunch the next day something to look forward to. Just be sure to let the pasta cool completely before storing it to maintain its best texture.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, it’s best to store the sauce on its own in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Simply cook fresh penne when you’re ready to eat—this keeps the pasta from becoming mushy and preserves that satisfying bite.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat, splashing in a bit of water if necessary to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions—just stir halfway through to heat evenly and top with fresh basil for that just-cooked vibrancy.
FAQs
Can I make Penne Arrabbiata gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free penne pasta, and you’ll have a spicy Italian classic that everyone at the table can enjoy—no one will miss the gluten.
How spicy is traditional Penne Arrabbiata?
The beauty of this dish is you control the level of heat. Authentic Penne Arrabbiata packs some serious kick, but you can scale back on the red pepper flakes to suit your taste or kick it up further with a pinch of cayenne.
Which pasta shapes can I use instead of penne?
If you don’t have penne, try rigatoni, ziti, or even spaghetti. The sauce clings best to tube-shaped pasta, but truly, any noodle you love will work with this zesty tomato sauce.
Is Penne Arrabbiata vegan?
Yes, in its classic form, Penne Arrabbiata is naturally vegan—just skip the Parmesan at the end, or replace it with a vegan alternative if you want that cheesy finish.
Can I add vegetables or protein to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even chickpeas for a twist. If you’d like some protein, grilled chicken or Italian sausage (plant-based or traditional) make tasty additions.
Final Thoughts
If you crave simple comfort with a spicy Italian twist, you simply can’t go wrong with Penne Arrabbiata. Give it a try soon—you might just find it becomes your new go-to for cozy nights in or quick gatherings with friends. Enjoy every forkful!
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Penne Arrabbiata Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
This Penne Arrabbiata recipe is a classic Italian dish with a fiery kick. The spicy tomato sauce pairs perfectly with al dente penne pasta, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. Topped with fresh basil and grated Parmesan, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Penne Arrabbiata:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1–2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté garlic, add red pepper flakes, pour in crushed tomatoes, season, and simmer for 10–12 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Toss cooked pasta with sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed. Stir in fresh basil and serve hot, topped with Parmesan.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the red pepper flakes.
- This sauce also works well with spaghetti or rigatoni.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 2 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
