Name: Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 400g/14oz penne or ziti, or other pasta of choice (short or long); 1 tbsp cooking/kosher salt (for cooking pasta); 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1 red cayenne pepper chilli, finely chopped (with seeds); 1/2 tsp chilli flakes (red pepper flakes); 800g/28 oz canned crushed tomatoes; 1 1/4 tsp cooking/kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp white sugar (only if needed); Parmesan, finely grated; 2 tsp finely chopped parsley (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 83 reviews

If you’re craving something that’s both fiery and comforting, this Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta) Recipe is the perfect go-to Italian classic that delivers a bold kick of heat balanced by rich tomato goodness. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – just a handful of pantry staples come together to create a vibrant, saucy plate of pasta bursting with flavor that’s guaranteed to warm your soul and spice up your dinner routine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a pot filled with a thick, chunky red sauce that has a rich texture with visible small tomato pieces and herbs. A wooden spoon is resting inside the pot, coated with the sauce, and slightly lifting some of it, revealing the sauce's dense consistency and deep red color. The pot's interior edge is stained with the sauce, showing a vivid contrast between the bright red sauce and the light inner surface of the pot. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple but essential ingredients is key to nailing the authentic taste and texture in your Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta) Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role in building those delicious layers of flavor, from the fruity olive oil to the bright, spicy chilies.

400g / 14oz penne or ziti: Choose short pasta that holds sauce well, creating the perfect bite every time.
1 tbsp kosher salt for pasta water: Ensures perfectly seasoned pasta from the inside out.
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds rich, fruity depth and smooth texture to the sauce.
3 garlic cloves, finely minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic punch that wakes up the palate.
1 red cayenne pepper chili, finely chopped (including seeds): Brings the signature spicy heat that gives this recipe its “angry” personality.
1/2 tsp chili flakes: Enhances the heat with a slightly smoky undertone for complexity.
800g / 28oz canned crushed tomatoes: The luscious, tangy base that anchors the entire sauce.
1 1/4 tsp kosher salt: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle layer of spice and earthiness.
1/2 tsp white sugar (optional): Tames the tomato’s natural acidity, if needed.
Parmesan, finely grated (for serving): A salty, nutty topping that elevates the dish with richness.
2 tsp finely chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness and a lovely pop of color.

How to Make Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta) Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the finely minced garlic and stir for about 10 seconds until it’s fragrant but not browned. Then add the chopped cayenne pepper and chili flakes, stirring for another minute to release those vibrant spicy oils. This step sets the fiery foundation for your sauce and fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes along with a splash of water from the can to capture every bit of flavor. Season with salt and black pepper, then give everything a good stir. Turning the heat to high, bring the sauce to a gentle simmer before reducing it back to medium heat. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste around the 10-minute mark – if the sauce feels too tangy, sprinkle in the optional white sugar to mellow things out.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your sauce simmers to perfection, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package instructions until just al dente – firm but tender. Just before draining, give the pasta plenty of stirs to agitate the starches, then ladle out a cup of the cooking water. This starchy liquid is a secret weapon for making the sauce cling beautifully to your pasta.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the drained penne to the pot with your simmered arrabbiata sauce. Pour in about half a cup of the reserved pasta water and toss everything together over low heat. This creates a luscious, silky coating that smothers every piece of pasta in spicy tomato goodness. Add more pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and get that perfect consistency.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Dish out your fiery creation into bowls and finish it with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a dash of fresh parsley if you like. Serving Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta) Recipe while it’s warm ensures every bite is bursting with the harmony of heat and rich tomato flavor that this dish promises.

How to Serve Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta) Recipe

A round white bowl filled with penne pasta covered in thick red tomato sauce, the pasta pieces showing smooth ridges and a soft texture. A woman's hand holding a wooden spoon lifts a portion of the pasta above the bowl, with the sauce clinging well to the pasta, showing a vibrant, slightly chunky texture. The bowl is set on a wooden surface with a few slices of red chili peppers scattered nearby. In the background, there is a bowl with green leafy vegetables placed on a white marbled surface, giving a fresh and natural contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley add that final layer of flavor and a splash of color that makes the dish as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. You can also sprinkle some extra chili flakes if you prefer an even spicier kick or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to enhance the richness.

Side Dishes

This spicy tomato pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the heat, or warm garlic bread that’s perfect for mopping up every last bit of that glorious sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also offer a fresh, balanced accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, turn your Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta) Recipe into a baked pasta dish by layering cooked penne and sauce with mozzarella and baking it till bubbly and golden. Alternatively, serve pasta nests on a large platter and scatter fresh herbs and shaved Parmesan over the top for a rustic family-style feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store your Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta) Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for 3 to 4 days without losing its vibrant flavor or punchy spice, making it a fantastic meal prep option.

Freezing

Freezing this pasta dish is definitely possible, but be aware that the texture of the pasta might soften a bit after thawing. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta) Recipe gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to restore the sauce’s silky texture. Stirring often will ensure the pasta heats evenly without drying out.

FAQs

Can I adjust the spiciness in this Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta) Recipe?

Absolutely! You can reduce the heat by removing the seeds from the cayenne pepper or using fewer chili flakes. For a milder version, omit the cayenne altogether and add chili flakes gradually, tasting as you go.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne or ziti are traditional choices because their tube shapes hold the spicy tomato sauce wonderfully well, but feel free to use rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti depending on your preference and what you have on hand.

Why is pasta water reserved during cooking?

Reserving pasta water is a classic Italian cooking trick because the starchy water helps thicken the sauce and makes it cling perfectly to the pasta, enhancing both texture and flavor in your Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta) Recipe.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, fresh whole peeled tomatoes mashed by hand can be used for a more rustic sauce, though canned crushed tomatoes offer convenience and consistent flavor that’s especially handy when fresh tomatoes aren’t in season.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Definitely! Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta) Recipe is entirely vegetarian and can be made vegan by simply omitting the Parmesan or using a plant-based alternative.

Final Thoughts

This Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta) Recipe is a testament to how a handful of simple ingredients can come alive when combined with passion and a bit of heat. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or hosting friends who love bold flavors, this recipe promises to impress while remaining incredibly approachable. Grab your ingredients, embrace the spice, and dive into a bowl of pure Italian comfort that’s anything but boring.