Learn how to make authentic Penne all’Arrabbiata

Penne all’Arrabbiata – A Spicy Taste of Southern Italy

Are you into spicy food that brings a real kick to your plate?

Penne all’Arrabbiata is a bold and flavourful pasta dish known for its spicy tomato sauce. Made with simple ingredients like garlic, chili, olive oil, and tomatoes, it’s a perfect example of how Italian cooking transforms a few basics into something unforgettable. And if you’re not a fan of spice, you can simply leave out the chili and still enjoy a delicious, rich tomato sauce.

Although the dish is most famously associated with Rome, its flavours and ingredients are deeply rooted in Southern Italian cooking – especially in the region of Campania with its capitol Naples and the famous Amalfie Coast. Known for its rich tomato-based cuisine and love of vibrant flavours, Campania brings the perfect foundation to a dish like Arrabbiata.

Why This Dish Fits the Region

Campania is home to some of Italy’s best ingredients, especially tomatoes grown in the volcanic soil around Mount Vesuvius. These tomatoes are naturally sweet and full of flavour, making them ideal for sauces.

The cuisine in this region is all about balance – simple recipes with bold taste. Garlic, olive oil, and chili are staples in many dishes, and they come together perfectly in Penne all’Arrabbiata.

What gives this pasta dish its fiery personality and bold character?

The name “Arrabbiata” means “angry” in Italian, referring to the heat from the chili. This reflects the Southern Italian love for slightly spicy, expressive dishes that are full of character.

Ingredients

Serves: 2 people

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

• 200g penne
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 red chili (or chili flakes) – Not into spicy food? Simply leave out the chili and you’ll still have a wonderfully tasty tomato sauce.
• 400g canned tomatoes (or fresh, peeled tomatoes)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Salt (for pasta water)
• Fresh basil, oregano and parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the base
Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and gently sauté until fragrant – do not let it brown too much.
Add the chili or chili flakes and let it infuse the oil for about 30 seconds.

3. Make the sauce
Add the tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Combine with pasta
Add a splash of pasta water to the sauce, then transfer the cooked penne into the pan. Toss everything together until well coated. Mix well and adjust consistency with more pasta water if needed. Serve immediately, optionally topped with fresh basil, oregano or parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

Now you can truly enjoy your Penne all’Arrabbiata. The gentle heat of the chili, the richness of the tomato sauce, and the aroma of garlic come together in a dish that’s simple yet full of character. For an extra touch, pair it with a glass of red wine from Campania – its depth and warmth beautifully complement the bold flavours of the pasta, bringing your meal to a perfectly satisfying close.

Tips for Perfect Penne all’Arrabbiata

• Don’t burn the garlic
• Adjust the chili to your spice level
• Let the sauce simmer for deeper flavor
• Always save pasta water for the sauce

Watch the Recipe in Action

Watch the video on Instagram or Pinterest to see how Penne all’Arrabbiata is made step by step.

Recipe to print

Want to cook this recipe later? Download the free printable PDF and keep it handy in your kitchen.

Penne all’Arrabbiata is a perfect example of Southern Italian cooking: simple ingredients, bold flavors, and quick preparation. It’s a dish that brings warmth and character to the table with minimal effort.

Even though its origins are tied to the traditions of Campania, this spicy pasta is loved all across Italy – and around the world.

Isn’t this a great recipe for your next dinner with friends? – Let me know how it tasted and how spicy you could handle it! 🌶️