Penne Arrabbiata is one of those classic Italian pasta dishes that’s as simple as it is delicious. This hearty pasta is packed with vibrant flavors, thanks to the spicy tomato sauce that coats each piece of penne, making it a fan favorite for those who love a bit of heat in their meals.

But don’t let the spicy element fool you – Penne Arrabbiata is balanced perfectly with a hint of garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs, making it a well-rounded dish that everyone will enjoy.

Why You Will Love Penne Arrabbiata

Easy to make: Penne Arrabbiata is beginner-friendly, requiring just a few ingredients and a short cooking time. You can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Bold, spicy kick: The dish gets its “angry” flavor from red chili peppers, providing a fiery heat. If you’re not a fan of spice, you can easily adjust the heat level by using fewer chili flakes or omitting them completely.

Rich and savory sauce: The tomato sauce is slow-simmered with garlic, olive oil, and tomatoes, creating a comforting and flavorful base for the pasta. The sauce’s depth of flavor pairs wonderfully with the chewy penne pasta.

Customizable: The level of heat and spice in this dish can be easily adjusted to suit your personal preferences. You can make it as mild or as fiery as you like!

Steps To Make Penne Arrabbiata

Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain the pasta once it’s done.

Prepare the sauce: Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté garlic, and add red chili flakes to create the signature spiciness. Add tomatoes to the pan and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the cooked penne into the sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the zesty, tomatoey goodness.

Garnish and serve: Finish by garnishing the dish with fresh basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and an extra dash of chili flakes for added heat, if desired. Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal!

Variations

Add protein: For a heartier meal, toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage to enhance the dish.

Go vegetarian: Skip the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.

Make the sauce richer: Add a splash of cream or a bit of butter to create a smoother, velvety texture while maintaining the spicy kick.

Smoky flavor option: For a smoky twist, incorporate smoked paprika or pancetta to add a unique depth of flavor.

How To Serve

Penne Arrabbiata is delicious on its own, but there are a few ways to make the meal even more enjoyable. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the sauce.

You can also pair the pasta with a slice of crusty bread to mop up any remaining sauce, ensuring that none of the goodness goes to waste. A glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or a Montepulciano, would make an excellent pairing, as its bold flavors complement the spiciness of the dish.