Penne Arrabbiata is the perfect pasta dish for those who enjoy bold, spicy flavors. The garlic-infused tomato sauce with a touch of red pepper flakes provides the perfect balance of heat and richness. With each bite, you get a satisfying combination of pasta, fresh basil, and the deliciously spicy sauce.
This dish is a great go-to for busy nights when you need a quick and flavorful meal. The tangy tomato sauce, paired with the heat from the red pepper flakes, makes for a zesty and mouthwatering experience. And it’s versatile—add extra vegetables or proteins if you like, or enjoy it just as it is for a vegetarian meal that packs a punch!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb penne pasta
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
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1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
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1 teaspoon sugar
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
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Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, along with sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
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Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
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Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Simplicity and Charm of the Sauce
The foundation of Penne Arrabbiata is the spicy, flavorful sauce. Arrabbiata sauce, or sugo all’arrabbiata, is typically composed of three main ingredients: olive oil, garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. This combination creates a base that’s both fragrant and fiery. The key to a great arrabbiata sauce is to sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil just until the garlic becomes aromatic and golden. It’s important to be cautious not to overcook the garlic, as it can turn bitter, which would negatively affect the flavor of the sauce.
Next, the tomatoes are added to the skillet. You can use either fresh chopped tomatoes or canned whole peeled tomatoes, both of which work wonderfully in this dish. Crushing the tomatoes with a wooden spoon or fork helps release their juices and incorporates them into the sauce. Tomato paste is then added to give the sauce a deeper, richer flavor, and the mixture is simmered for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
After the sauce has cooked for a few minutes, fresh basil is stirred in, adding a fresh, herbal note that balances the heat from the red pepper flakes. A generous topping of grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese adds creaminess and depth to the dish, bringing it all together beautifully. This perfect harmony of flavors—spicy, tangy, fresh, and cheesy—is what makes Penne Arrabbiata so irresistible.
How to Make Penne Arrabbiata
Making Penne Arrabbiata is quick and easy, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish. First, you cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta cooks, you prepare the arrabbiata sauce. Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet, then sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant. Next, add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, simmering the mixture until the sauce has thickened slightly. Once the sauce is ready, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it’s coated with the sauce.
One of the great things about this dish is its adaptability. If you want to add protein to the meal, you can easily include ground beef, chicken, shrimp, or sausage. These options can be added to the sauce while it simmers to allow the flavors to blend. You can also add grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to make the dish more substantial and colorful. The possibilities are endless, and the dish can easily be tailored to suit your tastes.
Variations and Customizations
Penne Arrabbiata is a versatile dish that can be adjusted based on your preferences. For a different pasta experience, you can substitute penne for spaghetti or any other pasta shape you enjoy. Each type of pasta brings its own unique texture and mouthfeel, and it’s a great way to vary the dish depending on what you have on hand.
If you’re looking to add some protein to the meal, consider incorporating chicken, shrimp, sausage, or ground beef. The hearty, spicy sauce pairs wonderfully with these additions, adding both richness and substance to the dish. Another option is to top your Penne Arrabbiata with meatballs, which will soak up the flavorful sauce, making each bite more satisfying.
For a vegetarian or vegan option, you can skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also experiment with adding different vegetables. Grilled zucchini, eggplant, or roasted red peppers are fantastic choices that enhance the dish with additional textures and flavors. Feel free to get creative with your variations to make this dish uniquely your own!
Freezing and Storing Penne Arrabbiata
Penne Arrabbiata can be made ahead of time and stored for later use. The arrabbiata sauce itself can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze the sauce, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the dish, simply reheat the sauce over low heat and prepare fresh pasta to serve with it.
It’s always great to have a batch of homemade arrabbiata sauce in the freezer for busy days when you’re craving a quick, flavorful meal. This dish also makes for a wonderful leftover lunch or dinner, as the flavors tend to intensify and develop even further after sitting for a day or two.
Health Benefits of Penne Arrabbiata
While Penne Arrabbiata is undoubtedly a delicious treat, it also has some health benefits. Tomatoes, the primary ingredient in the sauce, are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. They are also a great source of antioxidants, such as lycopene, which has been shown to support heart health and reduce the risk of certain cancers. The fresh basil and parsley add additional nutrients, such as vitamins K and A, as well as antioxidants.
When you make Penne Arrabbiata at home, you have full control over the ingredients, ensuring that the dish is made with wholesome, high-quality components. By using fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and garlic, you create a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Conclusion
Penne Arrabbiata is a classic Italian dish that combines bold, spicy flavors with the simplicity of pasta. Its fiery sauce, made from garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomatoes, is complemented by fresh basil and grated Parmesan, making it a delightful meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is a winner every time.
The beauty of Penne Arrabbiata is its versatility, allowing you to add proteins, vegetables, or different pasta shapes based on your preferences. It’s also a great make-ahead meal that can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later use, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping. So, next time you’re craving a flavorful pasta dish, try Penne Arrabbiata—it’s guaranteed to bring the heat and satisfy your taste buds!