Penne Arrabbiata

Penne Arrabbiata is a vibrant and fiery Italian classic that brings bold flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves a bit of spice and a lot of comfort in their meal. Made with simple pantry staples like canned tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes, it’s a quick and satisfying pasta recipe that packs a punch. Whether you’re a weeknight warrior or a weekend chef, this Penne Arrabbiata recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Penne Arrabbiata stands out because it’s an explosion of flavor in a single bowl. The sauce is intensely tomatoey with a spicy kick from the red pepper flakes, balanced by the subtle smokiness of paprika. It’s incredibly easy to make yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The addition of fresh basil and grated Parmesan (or Pecorino Romano) adds layers of freshness and creaminess that elevate the dish. Plus, it uses simple ingredients you likely already have, making it an accessible and wholesome option for any day of the week. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a quick, satisfying, and comforting Italian meal.

Ingredients

• 1 (14-ounce can) (400g) whole peeled tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 clove garlic, minced or crushed
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano, grated, plus extra for serving
• 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
• 5 fresh basil leaves, chiffonaded

How To Make Penne Arrabbiata

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to deepen the flavor.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Pour in the whole peeled tomatoes, crushing them gently with your spoon or a potato masher to break them down into smaller chunks. Add the red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine everything.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken nicely.

Step 4: Cook the Penne

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Basil

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese. Add the chiffonaded basil leaves and toss gently to combine.

Step 7: Serve

Divide the Penne Arrabbiata among plates or bowls. Sprinkle with extra cheese and fresh basil if desired, and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

• Use high-quality canned whole peeled tomatoes for the best sauce flavor.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
• Simmer the sauce slowly to develop deep, rich flavors.
• Reserve some pasta water to help loosen the sauce and make it cling better to the pasta.
• Fresh basil added at the end keeps its bright flavor and aroma.
• Grate your own Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for maximum freshness and flavor.

Variations and Customizations

• Add Vegetables: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
• Vegan Version: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
• Extra Herbs: Mix in fresh oregano or thyme for a different herbal note.
• Smoky Twist: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a smoky depth.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Penne Arrabbiata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or olive oil if the sauce has thickened too much. This pasta also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.

FAQ

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes in place of canned whole peeled tomatoes. Choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes, blanch and peel them, then crush and cook as directed. However, canned tomatoes are often preferred for their consistent flavor and convenience.

How spicy is Penne Arrabbiata?

Penne Arrabbiata is moderately spicy thanks to the red pepper flakes. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.

What type of pasta works best for Arrabbiata sauce?

Penne is the classic choice because its tube shape holds the sauce well. However, other pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle also work beautifully with this sauce.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Penne Arrabbiata is a sensational dish that combines simplicity and bold flavor in the most delightful way. With its spicy tomato sauce, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil, it’s a recipe that satisfies cravings and impresses with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Keep these ingredients on hand, and you’ll have a quick, delicious meal ready whenever hunger strikes!