Bring the heat to your kitchen with this authentic Penne Arrabbiata recipe! This dish is a true testament to the simplicity and bold flavors of Italian cuisine. A perfect balance of tender penne pasta, rich crushed tomatoes, and a spicy kick from red pepper flakes creates an irresistible plate of comfort. Whether you love a little heat or a lot, this classic pasta dish can be customized to your liking, making it an easy favorite for every dinner table. Pair it with a crisp glass of white wine, and you’ve got a perfect meal for any occasion!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon salt (for the pasta water) + 1 1/2 teaspoons (for seasoning)
- 16 ounces penne pasta
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Penne Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil, adding 1 tablespoon of salt. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Prepare the Arrabbiata Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it turns lightly golden. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the spices to infuse the oil.
- Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed San Marzano tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld. Season with 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and sugar (if desired to balance acidity).
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the drained penne pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
- Serve: Divide the pasta into servings. For an extra touch, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese on top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Tips:
- Adjust the level of heat by varying the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- To make the dish extra rich, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving will enhance the flavor.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this Penne Arrabbiata will always be a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy the combination of fiery spices and the comforting texture of pasta for a meal that never disappoints.
