Penne all’Arrabbiata

Fiery, bold, and deeply satisfying—Penne all’Arrabbiata is Italian comfort food at its most passionate.
With a handful of pantry ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you can create a spicy tomato pasta that’s as vibrant as Rome itself.

Perfect for spice lovers, meatless Mondays, or quick weeknight dinners, this classic dish is as effortless as it is flavorful.

What Is Penne all’Arrabbiata?

Arrabbiata means “angry” in Italian—named for the chili heat that gives this pasta its kick.
This Roman classic is made with garlic, olive oil, red chili flakes, and crushed tomatoes, tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta and finished with fresh parsley or grated cheese.

It’s fast, fiery, and full of bold Mediterranean personality.

Pair It With:

• A crisp green salad or caprese

• Warm garlic bread or focaccia

• A glass of Chianti or light red wine

Final Thoughts:

Penne all’Arrabbiata is proof that a little heat goes a long way. With just a few ingredients, this classic Roman pasta packs punch, comfort, and sophistication all in one bite.

Save this recipe for your next craving—you’ll want it in your weeknight rotation.

Yield: 2-3 servings

Print

With ImageWithout Image

Penne all’Arrabbiata

Prep time: 5 MinCook time: 20 MinTotal time: 25 Min

Fiery, bold, and deeply satisfying—Penne all’Arrabbiata is Italian comfort food at its most passionate.

With a handful of pantry ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you can create a spicy tomato pasta that’s as vibrant as Rome itself.

Perfect for spice lovers, meatless Mondays, or quick weeknight dinners, this classic dish is as effortless as it is flavorful.

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3–4 cloves garlic, finely sliced or minced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan
• 🔥 Tip: For even deeper flavor, add a splash of pasta water to the sauce while it simmers.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
4. Add crushed tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Stir and let simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.
5. Toss the drained penne into the skillet with the sauce. Mix well to coat every piece.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and grated cheese (if using).

Notes

Make it spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil before serving.

Add protein: Top with grilled shrimp, seared chicken, or sautéed sausage.

Make it gluten-free: Just use your favorite GF pasta.

Want extra depth? Add a teaspoon of tomato paste with the garlic.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

679

Sugar

12 g

Protein

23 g

Fat

21 g

Carbs

102 g

Sat. Fat

5 g

Cholesterol

16 mg

Fiber

8 g

Net carbs

94 g

Sodium

579 mg

Nutritional information is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.