Penne All’arrabbiata: The Pasta That Spices Up Your Life

Jump to recipe. Spice Up Your Life with Penne All’Arrabbiata

Have you ever had a meal so good it made you feel like you were living your main character moment in a rom-com set in Rome? That’s exactly what Penne All’arrabbiata does. This fiery Italian classic is here to rescue your boring pasta nights and turn them into a spicy, saucy adventure.

Before we dive into this mouthwatering recipe, let me set the scene. Imagine: It’s a Friday night, you’re wearing your comfiest sweats, and your “dinner plans” are a pasta dish that practically cooks itself. No reservations, no overpriced Uber Eats orders, just you, your kitchen, and a little culinary magic.

Penne All’arrabbiata, which literally translates to “angry pasta,” gets its name from the feisty kick of red chili. But don’t worry, it’s not the kind of spice that’ll have you crying on TikTok. It’s a sassy spice—bold, exciting, but not overwhelming. (Like that one friend who convinces you to text your ex but doesn’t let you spiral.)

What Makes It So Iconic?

1. Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: Tomatoes, garlic, chili, olive oil, and penne. That’s it. Like a classic white T-shirt, it’s simple but slays every time.

2. Speedy Cooking: Ready in 20 minutes, aka less time than it takes to binge an episode of The Office.

3. Customizable Heat Levels: Whether you’re Team Mild or Team “I Have No Taste Buds Left,” you can adjust the spice to suit your vibe.

   
   

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The Recipe

Here’s the breakdown for the bold and the hungry:

Ingredients:

• 12-16 oz penne pasta

• 2 tbsp olive/avocado oil

• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped (the more, the merrier, IMO)

• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (or less if you’re a spice newbie)

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 tsp cooking sherry

• 2 heaping tsp brown sugar

• Salt, to taste

• Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan for garnish (because we’re extra like that)

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic, cook for about a minute then add chili flakes, and cook for a few seconds being careful not to burn.

2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sherry, brown sugar, salt and pepper and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt to taste.

3. Cook your penne in salted boiling water. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Add 1/4-1/2 cup of the pasta water to your sauce.

4. Toss the cooked penne in the sauce. If it’s too thick, add more of that reserved pasta water for a silky finish.

5. Serve hot with a shower of Parmesan, a sprinkle of parsley, and maybe a side of garlic bread if you’re feeling fancy.

Pro Tips for Pasta Greatness

• Al Dente Always: Overcooked pasta is the enemy of happiness.

• Don’t Skimp on Olive Oil: This is not the time to use that mystery bottle in the back of your pantry.

• Level Up with Anchovies: Feeling adventurous? A couple of anchovy fillets in the sauce will blow your mind (and your taste buds).

Final Thoughts

Penne All’arrabbiata is the ultimate dish for anyone who loves pasta! It’s spicy, saucy, and ridiculously easy to make—basically the pasta equivalent of your wildest group chat. So go ahead, grab your penne, and unleash your inner Italian chef.

If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments! Did you go full spice queen or keep it mild and mysterious? Either way, this pasta is guaranteed to be the star of your weeknight dinner lineup.

Now, excuse me while I go make another bowl (or three). Ciao!