Easy Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta (20-Minutes)
This Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta is a quick and flavorful Italian classic made with pantry staples and ready in just 20 minutes. It features al dente pasta tossed in a bold, garlic-infused tomato sauce spiked with crushed red pepper flakes.Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving something comforting with a kick. Simple, satisfying, and customizable with protein or herbs, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta or any preferred pasta shape
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic thinly sliced or minced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes or whole peeled, crushed by hand
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil optional
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for serving
- ½ cup reserved pasta water as needed to thin sauce
Instructions
Boil the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Sauté the garlic and chili flakes:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
Add the tomatoes:
- Pour in the canned tomatoes. Stir and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes. Add a splash of pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
Season and combine:
- Taste and season with salt and pepper. Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more reserved pasta water.
Finish and serve:
- Top with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.