Penne Arrabbiata is a beloved staple of Roman cuisine, known for its bold, spicy flavor and simple preparation. The name “arrabbiata” means “angry” in Italian, a nod to the heat of the chili peppers that give the dish its signature kick. Despite its fiery nature, this pasta is beautifully balanced, offering a comforting mix of ripe tomatoes, garlic, and spice that makes every bite irresistible.
At its core, Penne Arrabbiata is a lesson in the beauty of simplicity. The sauce is made with just a handful of ingredients: olive oil, fresh garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and tomatoes. These basic components come together in a sizzling pan, creating a rich and aromatic sauce that clings perfectly to al dente penne pasta. The heat from the chili peppers wakes up the palate, while the sweetness of the tomatoes and the depth of the garlic round out the flavor profile.
One of the best things about Penne Arrabbiata is its versatility. It’s naturally vegetarian, easy to make vegan, and pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano adds a salty, nutty finish, while fresh basil or parsley brings a burst of color and freshness. For an extra touch of luxury, some chefs add a splash of red wine or finish the dish with a drizzle of quality olive oil.
This classic Italian dish is also deeply rooted in tradition. It’s often served as a quick yet satisfying weeknight meal, but it’s just as fitting for dinner parties or cozy gatherings. Its bold flavor and vibrant red color make it a standout on any table, and its straightforward ingredient list means you can whip it up in under 30 minutes.
Penne Arrabbiata is proof that simple food can be extraordinary. With just a few ingredients and a little heat, you get a dish that’s comforting, exciting, and authentically Italian. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking to bring a taste of Rome to your kitchen, this fiery pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients
- 100 grams penne pasta uncooked
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes adjust to taste
- 400 grams canned crushed tomatoes
- to taste Salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 30 grams Parmesan cheese grated, optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the red chili flakes to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt, and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition
I tried this but forgot the garlic, oops! Still turned out decent. Called it ‘Arrabbiata without the bite.’
Haha, I love that name! Arrabbiata without the bite sounds like a perfect meal! Garlic does add a punch, but it must’ve still been tasty. Good job!
Wait, how can it be arrabbiata without garlic?! That’s like pizza without cheese! I dunno, man, maybe try again and don’t forget the garlic this time.
Just made with my kids. They loved it! Thanks for sharing this easy recipe.
That’s awesome! Cooking with kids is the best. Glad it was a hit!
This recipe is super simple and quick to make! I loved it! Will definitely make again.
Pasta is my love language! This dish hit the spot, thank you!
Eh, it was okay. I think it needs more flavor or something. Not spicy enough for me.
Nice and easy recipe but what’s with the cheese? Is parmesan really necessary? Can’t ya just skip it?
Never liked chilli much, so this one ain’t for me. My husband loved it tho!
Glad your husband loved it! This recipe is so flavorful! 😋
Penne Arrabbiata is actually super easy to make. You should try it! Maybe you’ll like it better next time?
Took forever to cook. Who has time to simmer sauce for 10 minutes? Not for me.
Meh. Just okay. I prefer alfredo sauce.
I forgot the parmesan and it was still good, but I think it would taste better with it. Next time!
Parmesan is a game changer! I’m glad you liked it, but def try it next time for that extra flavor.
Delicious and simple! I made it gluten-free with brown rice penne. Turned out great!
I’m glad to hear it worked gluten-free! I’ve tried it before and it was a bit too spicy for my taste, but I’ll have to give it another go with the brown rice penne!
Yum! This recipe is super easy to follow. I added some chicken too. So good!
YUM! So tasty, I’m making it again tonight! Thanks for the recipe!
I’m so glad you liked it! It’s one of my favorites too! 😋
Tasty? Really? I found it too spicy. Maybe more garlic next time?
This is the best penne arrabbiata I’ve ever made! So spicy and flavorful! Thank you!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Arrabbiata is such a classic, and the spice really makes it pop! What did you serve it with?
Isn’t arrabbiata supposed to have meat? This feels like a veggie dish…
Simplicity at its finest! Just olive oil, garlic, and chili plus tomatoes. Can’t go wrong with that.
Absolutely! This recipe is so easy, I can make it even on a busy night. Love it!
I dunno, it sounds too simple. Can it really taste good with just that? Seems like it needs more flavor.
Isn’t Penne Arrabbiata just pasta with tomato sauce??? I don’t see what the big deal is.
Honestly, I didn’t get why everyone loves this. It tastes kind of bland to me. Maybe I did it wrong?
This was really easy to make! My family loved it! I added some chicken for protein.
Glad to hear it! Adding chicken sounds like a great idea. I’ll have to try that next time!
Is it really that easy? I find pasta dishes can be tricky sometimes. Did you use fresh tomatoes?
I dunno, the sauce was too spicy for my kids. Maybe use less chili flakes next time.