Name: Penne Arrabbiata: Quick & Spicy 30-Min Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more, to taste; 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

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Penne Arrabbiata has been my go-to for a quick, satisfying meal that always feels a little bit special. I remember the first time I tasted a truly authentic version in Rome – the simplicity of the spicy tomato sauce, clinging perfectly to each piece of penne, was incredible. It’s a classic Italian spicy pasta dish that’s surprisingly easy to whip up at home. This spicy Penne Arrabbiata recipe uses pantry staples to create a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Penne Arrabbiata

This Penne Arrabbiata is a weeknight dinner dream! Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:

It’s incredibly fast: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Pantry staples: You likely have most of the ingredients already, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Flavor explosion: The spicy tomato sauce is rich, zesty, and packed with garlic and chili.
Customizable heat: Easily adjust the red pepper flakes to make it as mild or as fiery as you like.
One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
Diet-friendly: Naturally vegan and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this easy Penne Arrabbiata pasta.
Versatile: This easy Penne Arrabbiata pasta is fantastic on its own or as a base for added protein.
Authentic taste: It captures the essence of a classic Italian spicy pasta dish without the fuss.

Authentic Penne Arrabbiata Recipe: What You’ll Need

Gathering your Penne Arrabbiata ingredients is the first step toward a delicious meal. This authentic recipe relies on simple, quality components to create that classic spicy flavor. You’ll need 1 pound penne pasta – choose your favorite, or go gluten-free if you prefer. For the sauce base, we’ll use 2 tablespoons olive oil to sauté the aromatics and 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced, which provides that essential pungent kick. Don’t forget the star of the spice: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more, to taste. This is what gives the sauce its signature “angry” arrabbiata heat. A 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes forms the heart of our sauce, offering a rich and vibrant tomato flavor. Finally, season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste. Fresh basil leaves make a lovely garnish, but they’re optional for this simple Penne Arrabbiata.

How to Make Penne Arrabbiata: Step-by-Step

Let’s dive into these simple Penne Arrabbiata instructions! This recipe is designed to be straightforward, so don’t worry if you’re new to making Italian spicy pasta. You’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Step 1: Get your pasta cooking first. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 pound penne pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente – tender but with a slight bite. Before you drain it, scoop out and reserve about 1 cup of that starchy pasta water. This liquid gold is key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
Step 2: While your penne is bubbling away, let’s build that amazing sauce. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Sauté these aromatics, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and just starting to turn a light golden color, about 1 to 2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it; burnt garlic is bitter garlic!
Step 3: Pour in the 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes. Stir everything together, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Now, season your sauce. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully, creating that classic arrabbiata flavor.
Step 5: Drain your cooked penne and add it directly to the skillet with the simmering sauce. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in that vibrant, spicy tomato sauce.
Step 6: This is where we perfect the texture. If the sauce seems a bit too thick or is clinging too tightly, add some of the reserved pasta water, about a tablespoon at a time. Stir after each addition until the sauce reaches your desired, luscious consistency – it should coat the pasta beautifully.
Step 7: Serve your glorious Penne Arrabbiata immediately. For an extra touch of freshness and color, garnish with a few torn fresh basil leaves if you have them. Enjoy this delightful, simple Penne Arrabbiata!

Penne Arrabbiata Cooking Tips for Success

Want to elevate your Penne Arrabbiata from good to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. Follow these simple tips, and you’ll be serving up a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. It’s all about those little details that create a truly amazing Italian spicy pasta dish.

Don’t rush the garlic: Sautéing the garlic and red pepper flakes gently allows their flavors to infuse the oil beautifully. Watch it closely to ensure it turns golden, not brown, to avoid bitterness.
Reserve that pasta water: This starchy water is your secret weapon for creating a silky, emulsified sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Add it gradually until you reach the ideal coating consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning: Tomatoes can vary in acidity and sweetness. Always taste your sauce before adding the pasta and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as needed.
Use good quality crushed tomatoes: Since tomatoes are the star, opting for a high-quality brand makes a noticeable difference in the depth of flavor for your Penne Arrabbiata.

What’s the secret to the best Penne Arrabbiata sauce?

The secret to the best Penne Arrabbiata sauce lies in the gentle sautéing of garlic and chili flakes to infuse the olive oil, and then allowing the crushed tomatoes to simmer and develop their rich flavor. Using reserved pasta water to emulsify the sauce creates that perfect, clingy coating. For more tips on creating flavorful sauces, check out this guide on making a great sauce.

Can I make Penne Arrabbiata ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce for your Penne Arrabbiata ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the sauce gently, then cook the pasta fresh and toss them together just before serving for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Penne Arrabbiata?

A common mistake with this classic Arrabbiata pasta dish is burning the garlic – watch it carefully! Another pitfall is not reserving pasta water; it’s crucial for sauce consistency. Overcrowding the pot when cooking the pasta can also lead to sticky noodles. Learning about proper pasta cooking techniques can help prevent this.

Best Ways to Serve Your Penne Arrabbiata

This vibrant Penne Arrabbiata is a star on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple additions. For a truly satisfying meal, consider serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. This offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, spicy sauce. Another fantastic idea for Penne Arrabbiata side dishes is some crusty garlic bread – perfect for soaking up any extra arrabbiata sauce left on your plate. If you want to add a protein element, grilled chicken or shrimp tossed in at the end is delicious, transforming it into a more substantial dish. These simple pairings enhance the overall dining experience. For more dinner ideas, explore our dinner recipes.

Nutrition Facts for Penne Arrabbiata

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this delicious Penne Arrabbiata. This dish is a flavorful way to enjoy a classic Italian spicy pasta dish, and knowing the details can help you fit it into your meal plan.

Calories: 550 kcal
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 95 g
Fiber: 8 g
Sugar: 8 g
Protein: 18 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

How to Store and Reheat This Penne Arrabbiata

Even though this Penne Arrabbiata is so quick to make, sometimes you end up with delicious leftovers! Properly storing and reheating your homemade Penne Arrabbiata ensures it tastes just as good the next day. Once your pasta has cooled down completely, transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover Penne Arrabbiata, you have a couple of easy reheating methods. For the best results, gently reheat it on the stovetop in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth if the sauce seems a bit dry. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe dish until heated through, stirring halfway for even warming. This makes enjoying this Italian spicy pasta dish a breeze even after the first cooking. For more tips on preserving food, you might find resources on food preservation helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions About Penne Arrabbiata

What is Penne Arrabbiata?

Penne Arrabbiata is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its spicy tomato sauce. The name “Arrabbiata” translates to “angry” in Italian, referring to the heat from the red chili peppers used in the sauce. It’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful way to enjoy penne pasta with a zesty, tomato-based sauce.

Penne Arrabbiata vs Marinara: What’s the difference?

While both Penne Arrabbiata and marinara sauces are tomato-based, the key difference is heat. Marinara is a smooth, basic tomato sauce, seasoned with garlic, onions, and herbs. Arrabbiata, on the other hand, is specifically characterized by its spiciness, achieved by adding red chili peppers (peperoncino) alongside the garlic. Think of Arrabbiata as a spicy cousin to marinara!

Can I make this Penne Arrabbiata recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! This particular recipe for Penne Arrabbiata is already a fantastic vegetarian option. It uses pantry staples like olive oil, garlic, crushed tomatoes, and chili flakes, making it a naturally vegetarian dish. If you choose gluten-free penne, it’s also a great gluten-free meal.

How do I store leftover Penne Arrabbiata?

Leftover Penne Arrabbiata stores beautifully! Allow the pasta to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheating is simple: gently warm it on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth, or microwave until heated through.

Variations of Penne Arrabbiata You Can Try

While this classic Italian spicy pasta dish is fantastic as is, there are so many ways to customize your Penne Arrabbiata! I love experimenting with different flavors and dietary needs. For a robust vegetarian Penne Arrabbiata recipe, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers along with the garlic and chili flakes. You could also incorporate some Kalamata olives for a briny kick. If you’re looking for more vegetarian meal inspiration, check out our savory parmesan zucchini muffins.

If you’re looking for a heartier meal, toss in some grilled chicken breast strips or sautéed shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking. For a richer sauce, try adding a splash of heavy cream or a knob of butter at the end. You can also boost the flavor by adding sun-dried tomatoes or a spoonful of capers. These simple twists on the traditional Italian spicy pasta Penne Arrabbiata make it endlessly adaptable to your preferences. For other quick dinner ideas, you might enjoy our shrimp and avocado bowls.