Go Back

Penne all’Arrabbiata

Penne all’Arrabbiata is a spicy Italian pasta dish featuring al dente penne coated in a fiery tomato sauce infused with garlic and chili oil. The dish highlights a balance of bold flavors, with a final texture that is both silky and slightly chewy, showcasing a bright red, sauce-laden presentation.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 400 g penne pasta uncooked
  • 4 cloves garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes or 400g fresh tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon red chili flakes adjust to taste
  • Salt to taste salt for water and sauce

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Frying pan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Strainer

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  3. Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic releases a fragrant aroma and just begins to turn golden.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the garlic and oil. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 10 minutes, until it thickens slightly and develops a vibrant red color.
  5. Add red chili flakes and a pinch of salt to the sauce, stirring well to distribute the heat evenly. Taste and adjust the chili according to your spice preference.
  6. Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked penne to the pan, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly with the spicy tomato sauce.
  7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the flavors and the sauce to cling nicely to the noodles.
  8. Serve the Penne all’Arrabbiata hot, garnished with extra chili flakes or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Feel free to adjust the chili flakes to match your spice tolerance. Using fresh tomatoes can give a brighter flavor, but canned crushed tomatoes are quick and convenient. For richness, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.