If you are craving a vibrant, fiery pasta dish that’s both simple and packed with flavor, this Penne Arrabbiata Recipe will quickly become your go-to comfort meal. With its tantalizing combination of perfectly cooked penne enveloped in a zesty, garlicky tomato sauce spiced just right with crushed red pepper flakes, it delivers that authentic Italian kick without demanding hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends, this Penne Arrabbiata Recipe hits all the right notes of heat, aroma, and richness, making every bite an absolute delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Penne Arrabbiata Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Everything from the garlic to the fresh herbs plays a crucial role in building layers of vibrant flavor, while the penne pasta perfectly holds the spicy, rich sauce.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The ideal shape to hold onto the spicy arrabbiata sauce, providing a perfect bite every time.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a silky, fruity base and helps gently toast the garlic without burning it.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with its unmistakable, aromatic depth — don’t skimp on this!
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste): This is where the signature spicy kick of arrabbiata comes from; add more if you like it fiery.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, providing a luscious, naturally sweet and tangy tomato base.
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances and balances the flavors throughout the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and complements the sharpness of the red pepper flakes.
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional): Helps soften tomato acidity for a smoother sauce.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil: Brightens the dish with a fresh herbal note and a pop of green color.
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for serving): Adds a salty, savory finish that’s a lovely contrast to the spicy sauce.
How to Make Penne Arrabbiata Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil; this ensures the pasta is well-seasoned from the start. Add the penne and cook it just until al dente according to the package instructions — you want the pasta to have that perfect bite to hold up to the bold arrabbiata sauce. Once cooked, drain and set it aside, ready to soak up all that delicious flavor.
Step 2: Sauté garlic and spices
While the pasta is cooking, heat your olive oil over medium heat in a spacious skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring them gently for about a minute or until you catch the intoxicating aroma of toasted garlic. Be careful not to let the garlic brown or burn, as that will make the sauce bitter.
Step 3: Simmer the tomato sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring them with the garlic and pepper mixture. Season with salt, black pepper, and add sugar if you like a slightly mellower sauce. Let this simmer on a low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch as it thickens and transforms into a rich, spicy sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Step 4: Combine pasta and sauce
Now for the best part: add your cooked penne straight into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together so each piece of pasta is evenly coated with that fiery tomato goodness. Let it cook together for an extra minute or two — this step helps the penne absorb the flavors, making each bite even more delicious.
Step 5: Add fresh herbs and serve
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley or basil. This last touch infuses the dish with freshness and color. Serve your Penne Arrabbiata hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan if you like. This simple yet stunning final flourish brings a lovely creaminess that balances the spiciness perfectly.
How to Serve Penne Arrabbiata Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Penne Arrabbiata Recipe, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese not only adds a savory depth but also mellows the heat. A handful of chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil can brighten the plate and add an inviting burst of color. If you want an extra punch of flavor, a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving makes all the difference.
Side Dishes
This Penne Arrabbiata Recipe shines brilliantly alongside classic Italian sides. Think crunchy garlic bread that soaks up every drop of sauce or a crisp green salad lightly tossed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the spiciness. Roasted vegetables or a simple antipasto platter can also complement the meal beautifully without overpowering the main star.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and inviting presentation, serve the Penne Arrabbiata in rustic clay bowls or colorful ceramic dishes that echo Italian charm. Garnish with whole sprigs of fresh basil or tiny chili pepper slices for a pop of color and spice hint. You can even layer it in a clear glass casserole dish to showcase the vibrant red sauce — perfect for casual family meals or cozy dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Penne Arrabbiata can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta has cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent excess moisture build-up. When you’re ready, this spicy pasta makes a fantastic next-day meal, as the flavors often deepen overnight.
Freezing
While this Penne Arrabbiata Recipe is best enjoyed fresh for the vibrant texture, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To freeze, slightly undercook the pasta initially so it doesn’t turn mushy upon reheating. When frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat your Penne Arrabbiata gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave it covered in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating to keep the pasta tender and the sauce rich and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I adjust the spiciness in this Penne Arrabbiata Recipe?
Absolutely! The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility. You can easily increase or decrease the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your heat tolerance. For a milder version, reduce the flakes, or for an extra kick, add a pinch more or sprinkle some fresh chili slices on top.
Is this Penne Arrabbiata Recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, it is naturally vegan if you omit the Parmesan cheese. The sauce is entirely plant-based, crafted from olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, and spices, which makes it a fantastic choice for vegan and vegetarian diets alike.
What’s the best pasta to use for Arrabbiata sauce?
Penne is traditionally used because its tubular shape catches the spicy sauce beautifully, ensuring bursts of flavor in every bite. However, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or ziti for similar results.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the arrabbiata sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. This gives the flavors time to meld even more deeply. Just reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.
How do I balance the acidity of the tomato sauce?
The optional sugar in the recipe is a key tip for balancing the tomato’s natural acidity. Adding just a little helps soften the sharpness without making the sauce sweet. You can also adjust salt levels or add a splash of olive oil to round out the flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a dish like this Penne Arrabbiata Recipe — it’s a wonderful mix of simplicity and bold flavors that comes together in a flash yet leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re a seasoned pasta lover or exploring spicy Italian dishes for the first time, this recipe invites you to savor every mouthful. So go ahead, give it a try and bring a little authentic Italian heat and happiness right to your dinner table.
Print
Penne Arrabbiata Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan (without cheese), Vegetarian
Description
Penne Arrabbiata is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its bold, spicy tomato sauce made with garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs. This easy stovetop recipe delivers a flavorful, satisfying meal perfect for a quick dinner, served with optional grated Parmesan for added richness.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
To Serve
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare Sauce Base: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, to avoid bitterness.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional sugar to balance acidity. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly, and cook together for 1–2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley or basil. Serve the Penne Arrabbiata hot, with grated Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for desired spiciness.
- Pairs excellently with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- Using fresh herbs adds brightness; feel free to substitute parsley with basil or vice versa.
- For a vegan option, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
