If you’re hunting for a bowl of pasta with character, Penne Arrabbiata should be your next kitchen adventure. This classic Roman dish is all about fire and flavor: a quick sauté of fresh garlic and bold red chili flakes infuses olive oil, which is then simmered with juicy tomatoes to create a sauce that packs a feisty punch. It’s a perfect go-to for cozy weeknights, satisfying meatless dinners, or anytime you crave pasta with attitude. Whether you serve it simply or jazz it up with your favorite garnishes, Penne Arrabbiata is sure to wow any spice lover at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A short, thoughtful ingredient list is at the heart of Penne Arrabbiata, meaning every element brings its own magic. Simple pantry staples come together to make a delightfully spicy, saucy, and satisfying pasta dish that’s proof you don’t need a long shopping list for incredible flavor.

Penne pasta: The ideal shape for holding onto spicy Arrabbiata sauce, penne delivers the perfect firm bite.
Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil forms the flavorful base, carrying all the aromatics and spice.
Garlic: Fresh, minced garlic infuses the oil and gives a gorgeous depth of flavor—don’t let it brown!
Red chili flakes: The signature heat! Adjust these up or down to control how fiery your sauce gets.
Canned diced tomatoes: Canned or fresh, tomatoes transform into a rich, tangy sauce in minutes.
Salt: A must for bringing out the rich flavors in both the pasta and sauce—don’t be shy.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of earthy warmth to round out each bite.
Fresh parsley or basil: Sprinkling herbs at the end adds color and a hit of freshness that balances the spice.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For a creamy finish, add a shower of cheese—or skip it for a vegan option.

How to Make Penne Arrabbiata

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Begin by bringing a big pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil—there’s nothing like perfectly cooked penne as the base for explosively flavorful Penne Arrabbiata. Toss in your pasta and cook just until al dente, following the package directions. Before draining, scoop out a small cup of pasta cooking water; this can help bring your sauce and pasta together later.

Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil

While the pasta simmers, set a large skillet over medium heat and pour in the olive oil. This is where your Penne Arrabbiata’s flavor journey begins! The gentle warmth allows the oil to become fragrant, ready to soak up every bit of those soon-to-be sizzling aromatics.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Toss the minced garlic into your warm oil and sauté it for one to two minutes. Keep a close watch—garlic goes from fragrant to crispy quickly, and you want it just golden and aromatic, not brown. This step lays down a sweet, savory foundation for your sauce.

Step 4: Add Chili Flakes

Next, stir in the red chili flakes. This is where your Penne Arrabbiata gets its iconic kick! Let the flakes toast gently in the oil for about a minute, coaxing out their full, spicy aroma and ensuring every bite of pasta will have a bold personality.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes

Pour in the diced tomatoes, juices and all. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for five to seven minutes, so the acidity mellows and the flavors come together. If you like it rustic, crush whole tomatoes with your hands instead. Your kitchen will start smelling divine!

Step 6: Season the Sauce

Now’s the time to taste and adjust. Sprinkle in salt and plenty of freshly cracked black pepper; these small touches make your Penne Arrabbiata pop. You want the sauce to be bright, savory, and just salty enough.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your drained penne right into the skillet with the simmering sauce. Toss well to ensure every tube is coated in fiery red goodness. If the sauce looks too thick, just add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen things up and achieve a glossy, luxurious finish.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Dish out generous bowls of Penne Arrabbiata, then sprinkle on fresh parsley or basil. Parmesan cheese on top adds a creamy, savory layer—totally optional if you’re keeping it vegan. Serve hot and prepare yourself (and your lucky guests) for mouthfuls of pure, spicy comfort.

How to Serve Penne Arrabbiata

Garnishes

A shower of chopped parsley or ribbons of basil brings a burst of color and a hint of freshness. If you’re not vegan, a handful of grated Parmesan gives a lovely, salty edge that tames the heat a bit. Crushed red pepper flakes on top don’t just look pretty—they let everyone dial up the spice to their own taste.

Side Dishes

Pair Penne Arrabbiata with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette, or serve with garlicky roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal. Warm, crusty Italian bread or garlic knots are perfect for soaking up any rich, spicy sauce left behind in your bowl.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, serve your Penne Arrabbiata in a big, warmed serving dish, topped with a swirl of fresh herbs. For family-style fun, offer bowls of extra chili flakes, grated cheese, and olive oil at the table. Or, for gatherings, plate pasta in small bowls or cups for a zesty appetizer everyone will remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Penne Arrabbiata stores beautifully. Let any extra pasta cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days, making lunchtime something to seriously look forward to.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, it’s best to store the sauce on its own and boil fresh pasta when you’re ready to eat. The sauce can be frozen in resealable bags or containers for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove before tossing with your pasta.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to your pasta before warming it in a skillet over low heat. This helps revive the saucy texture and keeps your Penne Arrabbiata just as irresistible as when it was freshly made. The microwave works too—just be sure to cover to avoid splatters.

FAQs

How spicy is Penne Arrabbiata?

By nature, Penne Arrabbiata is meant to have a kick! That said, the spice level is totally up to you. Start with a smaller amount of chili flakes if you’re cautious, and let guests add more at the table.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is traditional for Penne Arrabbiata (the ridges and tubes hold sauce beautifully), you can use rigatoni, ziti, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.

Is Penne Arrabbiata vegan?

Yes—provided you skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative, Penne Arrabbiata is naturally vegan. Its big, bold flavors shine thanks to the olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes.

Can I add protein to this pasta?

Definitely! While delicious as-is, you can toss in cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier take. Just add your protein when combining the sauce and pasta.

What tomatoes work best for the sauce?

Canned diced tomatoes are super convenient, but you can also use whole peeled tomatoes that you crush with your hands for a rustic texture. In summer, ripe fresh tomatoes will give you a sweeter, more delicate sauce.

Final Thoughts

If you’re longing for a meal that’s as simple as it is electric, give Penne Arrabbiata a spot in your dinner rotation. It comes together quickly and never fails to impress with its zingy, bold flavors. Grab those ingredients, fire up the stove, and discover why this classic pasta has a place in every spice lover’s heart!

Penne Arrabbiata Recipe