Penne Arrabbiata is a classic Italian pasta dish that celebrates simplicity, bold flavors, and honest ingredients. Originating from Rome, the word “arrabbiata” means “angry,” a reference to the fiery heat of red chili flakes that give this dish its signature kick. At its heart, Penne Arrabbiata is all about perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a vibrant tomato sauce infused with garlic, olive oil, and chilies.
What makes this dish so special is how a handful of pantry staples come together to create something incredibly flavorful and satisfying. There’s no cream, no heavy additions—just pure, clean flavors that highlight the beauty of Italian cooking. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and energizing, making it a timeless favorite across the world.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this Penne Arrabbiata recipe because it proves that simple food can be deeply satisfying. It comes together quickly, yet every bite is packed with bold, robust flavor. The heat from the chilies, balanced by the sweetness of tomatoes and richness of olive oil, creates a sauce that’s exciting without being overpowering. It’s my go-to recipe when I want something quick, comforting, and full of character.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
This is a must-try dish because it showcases the essence of Italian cooking—minimal ingredients, maximum flavor. It’s budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and adaptable to different spice levels. If you enjoy pasta dishes with a bit of heat and a lot of flavor, Penne Arrabbiata deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.
Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 420 calories per serving
Course: Main Course / Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
Penne pasta
Salt
Water
For the Arrabbiata Sauce:
Extra virgin olive oil
Garlic cloves thinly sliced
Red chili flakes
Crushed tomatoes or canned whole tomatoes
Salt
Black pepper
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking Directions
Cook the penne until al dente, prepare a spicy tomato sauce with garlic and chili flakes, then toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat.
Step 3: Add sliced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant, taking care not to brown it.
Step 4: Stir in red chili flakes and cook briefly to release their heat.
Step 5: Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Add cooked penne to the sauce and toss well to coat.
Step 7: Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 8: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
How to Serve This Recipe
Serve Penne Arrabbiata hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or crusty Italian bread for a complete meal.
Recipe Tips
Tip: Use high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
Tip: Keep the garlic lightly golden, not browned, to avoid bitterness.
Tip: Adjust chili flakes to control the heat level.
Tip: Salt the pasta water generously to enhance overall taste.
Variations
Extra Spicy Version: Add more chili flakes or a touch of fresh red chilies.
Protein Version: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
Vegetable Version: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or olives.
Vegan Version: Skip the cheese and finish with nutritional yeast or extra olive oil.
Whole Wheat Version: Use whole wheat penne for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
Freezing and Storage
Storage: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water.
Freezing: The arrabbiata sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Freeze separately from the pasta for best texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.
Special Equipment Needed
Large pot for boiling pasta
Wide skillet or saucepan
Wooden spoon
Colander
Measuring spoons
Conclusion
Penne Arrabbiata is a bold, comforting pasta dish that proves simplicity can be powerful. With its spicy tomato sauce, fragrant garlic, and perfectly cooked pasta, it delivers classic Italian flavor in every bite. Easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and deeply satisfying, this recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again when you crave something quick and full of character.
Penne Arrabbiata
Penne Arrabbiata is a classic Italian pasta dish that celebrates simplicity, bold flavors, and honest ingredients. Originating from Rome, the word “arrabbiata” means “angry,” a reference to the fiery heat of red chili flakes that give this dish its signature kick.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
For the Arrabbiata Sauce:
For Garnish:
Instructions
-
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
-
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat.
-
Step 3: Add sliced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant, taking care not to brown it.
-
Step 4: Stir in red chili flakes and cook briefly to release their heat.
-
Step 5: Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
-
Step 6: Add cooked penne to the sauce and toss well to coat.
-
Step 7: Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
-
Step 8: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
