Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and finely chopped red chilis and sauté until the garlic is golden but not browned, about 1–2 minutes.
Pour in the tomato purée, reduce the heat to low–medium, season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and simmer gently for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over medium‑high heat and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to combine over low heat; if the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce coats the pasta.
Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan if using, drizzle with a little olive oil, and serve immediately.