Penne Arrabbiata is one of those classic Italian dishes that can instantly lift your spirits. Its vibrant red sauce, made with crushed tomatoes and a kick of spicy red pepper flakes, offers a comforting warmth that many of us crave after a long day. Whether you’re preparing a quick meal for yourself or impressing friends at a dinner party, this recipe is both straightforward and satisfying. Plus, the beauty of Penne Arrabbiata lies in its simplicity—using just a handful of fresh ingredients that highlight the flavors without overwhelming them. I can almost smell the garlic sizzling right now! So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious recipe together!
Why This Recipe Works
Penne Arrabbiata is a beloved classic for a reason. The combination of garlic, crushed tomatoes, and fiery red pepper flakes creates a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also allows you to adjust the heat level to suit your taste. The technique of sautéing the garlic and spices before adding the tomatoes ensures that every bite is infused with richness and depth. This recipe works because it strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication, making it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Penne Arrabbiata
This Penne Arrabbiata recipe is your new go-to for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests. The vibrant red sauce is not only visually appealing but also bursts with the robust flavors of fresh ingredients. The ease of preparing this dish means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family. Plus, the optional garnishes of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley elevate the dish, providing a touch of elegance. Get ready to fall in love with this spicy, comforting pasta!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water) + 1 ½ teaspoons (for seasoning)
- 16 ounces penne pasta
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 ½ teaspoons sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Boiling the Pasta
Begin by adding 1 tablespoon of salt to a large pot of water. Bring the water to a rolling boil and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This step is crucial as the starchy water will help the sauce cling beautifully to your pasta.
Sautéing the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes lightly golden, releasing its aromatic fragrance. Make sure not to burn the garlic, as that would lead to a bitter taste, ruining the sauce.
Toasting the Red Pepper Flakes
Next, stir in 1-2 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Toast them for about 30 seconds, allowing their flavors and heat to intensify. This step adds an exciting kick that defines Penne Arrabbiata.
Making the Sauce
Now it’s time to pour in the 28-ounce can of crushed San Marzano tomatoes and stir well. Allow the sauce to simmer for 15 minutes, enabling the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Season it with 1 ½ teaspoons of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and sugar (if needed). This balance brings out the best in the tomatoes, marrying the flavors beautifully.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Toss the drained penne into the sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve the desired sauce consistency, allowing it to cling beautifully to the pasta. This step ensures every bite carries that delightful taste.
Garnishing and Serving
Divide the Penne Arrabbiata into servings and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the meal! This dish is perfect when shared with good company and a nice glass of wine.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for an authentic taste that’s sweeter and richer.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your spice preference; start with 1 teaspoon for mild heat.
- Always reserve pasta water to adjust the consistency of your sauce and help it adhere to the pasta.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Add bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies, bringing more color and nutrition.
- Protein Additions: Incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal that satisfies.
- Creamy Touch: For a creamy garlic arrabbiata, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving, adding a smooth richness.
Serving Suggestions
Penne Arrabbiata pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread, a simple arugula salad, or even a light antipasto platter. It also complements a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a refreshing light red like Chianti, making any meal feel special.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat penne for this recipe?
Yes, whole wheat penne works wonderfully and adds a nutty flavor. Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.
2. How spicy is Penne Arrabbiata?
The spice level can vary depending on how much red pepper flakes you use. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste as you go.
3. Can I meal prep Penne Arrabbiata?
Absolutely! You can cook it ahead of time and reheat it, keeping the pasta and sauce separate for best texture. This makes it ideal for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
4. Is there a vegetarian alternative to cheese toppings?
Yes! Nutritional yeast can be a great vegan alternative when you want a cheesy flavor without dairy.
5. What should I do with leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, toss it back in a skillet with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, this Penne Arrabbiata is sure to impress. Spicy, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying, it captures the essence of Italian comfort food. Each step in this easy recipe contributes to a dish that feels special, and the optional garnishes make it perfect for any occasion. Embrace the warmth and joy of cooking with this delightful pasta dish, and enjoy every mouthful!
Print
Penne Arrabbiata
Penne Arrabbiata is a delightfully spicy pasta dish that combines garlic, crushed tomatoes, and red pepper flakes for a burst of flavor. It’s easy to prepare, making it your go-to for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal fuss.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water) + 1 ½ teaspoons (for seasoning)
- 16 ounces penne pasta
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1–2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 ½ teaspoons sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil water with salt and cook penne until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté garlic until lightly golden.
- Stir in crushed red pepper flakes and toast for 30 seconds.
- Add crushed tomatoes, simmer for 15 minutes, season with salt, pepper, and sugar if needed.
- Combine drained penne with sauce, adjusting consistency with reserved pasta water.
- Serve garnished with Parmesan and parsley.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Use high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for a richer flavor.
Adjust red pepper flakes for desired spice level; start with 1 teaspoon for mild heat.
Always reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 750
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 55
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 12
- Cholesterol: 5
