If you love bold flavors and a bit of heat, Penne Arrabbiata is the perfect pasta dish for you! This classic Roman recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, featuring al dente penne pasta tossed in a fiery tomato sauce infused with garlic, olive oil, and red chili flakes. The word “Arrabbiata” means “angry” in Italian, referring to the spiciness of the dish. With its minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, Penne Arrabbiata is an excellent choice for a satisfying weeknight meal or a special Italian-inspired dinner.

The Origins of Penne Arrabbiata

Penne Arrabbiata hails from the Lazio region of Italy, particularly Rome, where it became a popular dish in the 20th century. Italians have long favored simple pasta dishes that use high-quality ingredients to create bold flavors. This spicy pasta is traditionally made with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and dried red chili flakes. Over the years, Penne Arrabbiata has gained worldwide recognition and is loved by those who appreciate a spicy kick in their meals.

Ingredients You Will Need

For the Arrabbiata Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (28 oz / 800g) crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) reserved pasta water (if needed)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For Garnishing:

• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Extra red pepper flakes (for extra heat, optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt, then add the penne pasta and cook until al dente (about 10–12 minutes, or according to package instructions). Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Arrabbiata Sauce

In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and oregano (if using). Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce is ready, add the drained penne pasta directly into the pan. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the spicy tomato sauce. Allow the pasta to cook in the sauce for 1–2 minutes, so it fully absorbs the flavors.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Remove the pan from heat and divide the Penne Arrabbiata among serving plates. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or basil for extra flavor. If you love extra spice, sprinkle a bit more red pepper flakes on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Penne Arrabbiata

• Use High-Quality Tomatoes: The key to a great Arrabbiata sauce is using San Marzano tomatoes, known for their rich and slightly sweet flavor.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. If you love extra heat, feel free to add more.
• Don’t Burn the Garlic: Garlic should be sautéed until fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can create a bitter taste.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Adding a little pasta water helps emulsify the sauce, making it cling better to the pasta.
• Add Protein if Desired: While traditionally a vegetarian dish, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta for extra depth.

Penne Arrabbiata is a simple yet bold Italian dish that delivers the perfect balance of spice, garlic, and rich tomato flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and quick cooking time, this pasta is ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress with minimal effort. Try this homemade Penne Arrabbiata recipe today and experience the fiery flavors of Italy right at home!