Easy Penne Arrabbiata Recipe

Whenever I need a fast pasta dinner with a little kick, I reach for this Penne Arrabbiata. It’s one of those recipes that feels special even though it comes together in under 30 minutes. If you love simple pasta dinners, you’ll also enjoy browsing my Pasta Recipes collection for more ideas.

The first time I made arrabbiata, I was surprised by how just garlic, tomatoes, and chili flakes could create so much flavor. It’s the kind of dish I now make on repeat, especially when I don’t want something too heavy but still crave comfort food. If you’ve ever tried my Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan, you know I love a good tomato-based sauce!

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What You’ll Need

For this Penne Arrabbiata, the ingredients are as simple as they come — pantry staples, but with a fiery twist. Here’s what I use:

• Penne pasta — I stick to classic penne, but rigatoni works too.
• Olive oil — A good extra-virgin adds richness.
• Garlic — Fresh garlic is a must; it’s the heart of the sauce.
• Red chili flakes — Adjust to your spice comfort. My husband likes it fiery, but I tone it down for the kids.
• Canned tomatoes — I prefer San Marzano for sweetness and depth.
• Salt & pepper — To balance everything.
• Fresh parsley — For garnish and freshness.

If you enjoy hearty soups, this pasta pairs wonderfully with my Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup on cooler nights.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Penne Arrabbiata

Making Penne Arrabbiata is easier than you think. Here’s how I bring it together:

Step 1 — Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne until al dente. I always reserve a little pasta water — it’s liquid gold for loosening the sauce later.

Step 2 — Sauté Garlic & Chili Flakes

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Add minced garlic and chili flakes, letting them sizzle gently. Don’t rush this — burned garlic can ruin the dish.

Step 3 — Add Tomatoes

Stir in canned tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. I like to crush them with a spoon as they cook for a chunkier texture. Let the sauce simmer 10–12 minutes until thickened.

Step 4 — Combine Pasta & Sauce

Toss the drained pasta directly into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed. This helps the sauce cling beautifully.

Step 5 — Garnish & Serve

Finish with fresh parsley and, if you like, a sprinkle of Parmesan. I keep mine dairy-free when I want the heat to shine through.

For another weeknight shortcut, you might also enjoy my Pressure Cooker Chicken Enchiladas — they’re just as satisfying in a completely different way!

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Pro Tips & Easy Swaps

• Use whole peeled tomatoes and crush them by hand for a rustic sauce.
• Add a touch of sugar if your tomatoes are too acidic.
• Swap penne with rigatoni or spaghetti if that’s what you have.
• Stir in a splash of red wine for deeper flavor.
• For less spice, halve the chili flakes and add more parsley.
• Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp if you want protein.
• Keep it vegan by skipping cheese, or add Parmesan/pecorino if you like.
• A drizzle of extra olive oil at the end makes it luxurious.

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Serving Ideas & Variations

I usually serve Penne Arrabbiata with a crisp green salad and crusty bread. Here are more ideas:

• With garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
• Alongside a simple arugula salad with lemon.
• Tossed with sautéed zucchini or eggplant.
• With olives and capers for extra tang.
• Add roasted red peppers for sweetness.
• Top with burrata for a creamy twist.

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Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

• Overcooking pasta — Always go al dente, it keeps texture.
• Burning garlic — Cook low and slow; once it browns, it turns bitter.
• Too watery sauce — Simmer longer, or add less pasta water.
• Over-spicing — Start with less chili, you can always add more later.
• Skipping salt in pasta water — It’s your only chance to season pasta itself.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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You’ll Also Love

• Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells — creamy and comforting.
• Greek Pasta Salad — fresh and zesty for summer.
• Caprese Pasta Salad — light and full of tomatoes and mozzarella.

For even more ideas, check out all my Pasta Recipes.