Spicy Garlic Penne Pasta: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Favorite
If you’re craving a dish that’s bold, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this spicy garlic penne pasta is your new go-to. With the perfect balance of heat, garlic richness, and a silky Parmesan finish, it’s a weeknight winner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a fan of spicy pasta with garlic and oil or looking to try a creamy spicy garlic penne, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
It’s also incredibly versatile—easy to make, easy to tweak, and even easier to love. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this spicy garlic pasta recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
And if you’re already a fan of healthy pasta salads or Caprese pasta salad, this warm and spicy twist will be a welcome addition to your pasta repertoire.
Table of Contents
Spicy Garlic Penne Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 0.5 tsp salt, plus more for pasta water
- 0.25 cup sun-dried tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden and fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
- Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil mixture. If it looks dry, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time.
- Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan cheese. Toss until the cheese melts into a silky sauce.
- Top with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition
Notes
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Ingredients to Make Spicy Garlic Penne Pasta
Here’s everything you need to make this spicy garlic butter pasta at home. The ingredients are simple, pantry-friendly, and come together to create a dish that’s anything but ordinary.
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt, plus more for pasta water
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Time Needed to Make Garlic Penne Pasta Easy
This garlic penne pasta easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Here’s a quick breakdown of the time you’ll need:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
It’s quicker than ordering takeout, and far more satisfying. If you love quick meals like ground beef tacos, this pasta will fit right into your rotation.
Quick Steps to Make Spicy Garlic Pasta Recipe
1. Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden and fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
3. Add the Heat and Flavor
Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Toss in the Pasta
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil mixture. If it looks dry, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time.
5. Finish with Cheese and Lemon
Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan cheese. Toss until the cheese melts into a silky sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Ellie’s warm intro – This dish reminds me of cozy Friday nights with a glass of wine and my favorite playlist.
Flavor swap or twist: Add a splash of white wine before tossing in the pasta for a deeper flavor.
Diet-friendly tweak: Use whole wheat penne or gluten-free pasta for a lighter option.
Prep or texture improvement: Toast the sun-dried tomatoes slightly before adding for a chewy, smoky bite.
Storage or reheating tip: Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce without drying it out.
Is Spicy Garlic Butter Pasta Healthy and Nutritious?
Spicy garlic butter pasta may sound indulgent, but it can be surprisingly balanced when made with quality ingredients. Let’s break it down:
- Olive oil provides heart-healthy fats and antioxidants. Learn more about its benefits in our olive oil guide.
- Garlic is known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. We’ve covered its health perks in our garlic-focused recipes.
- Red pepper flakes can help boost metabolism and add a satisfying kick.
- Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
- Parmesan cheese adds calcium and protein, though it should be used in moderation.
Compared to heavier dishes like penne alla vodka or fettuccine Alfredo, this spicy garlic penne pasta is lighter and more nutrient-dense.
It’s also a great alternative to creamy spicy pasta dishes like creamy scallop pasta or chicken Alfredo, especially if you’re watching your dairy intake.
Can I Make Creamy Spicy Garlic Penne Healthier and Still Delicious?
Absolutely! Here are some easy swaps and tweaks to make this dish even more nutritious without sacrificing flavor:
- Use whole grain or chickpea penne for added fiber and protein.
- Reduce the cheese and add a splash of unsweetened almond milk for a creamy texture with fewer calories.
- Swap butter for more olive oil to keep it heart-healthy.
- Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Make it dairy-free by using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
For more inspiration, check out our healthy fall dinner recipes or try a twist like tuna pasta salad for a protein boost.
And if you’re avoiding gluten, our gluten-free salmon cups are another great dinner option.
How to Serve Spicy Garlic Penne Pasta?
This hot garlic penne is a star on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks:
- Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up every drop of that garlicky oil.
- Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Looking for more pasta pairings? Try it alongside salmon and broccoli pasta or a fresh pesto pasta salad.
And if you’re a fan of bold flavors, this dish is a great alternative to creamy Cajun chicken pasta.
Avoid These Mistakes
Even a simple spicy penne can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Burning the garlic: Always sauté on medium heat and watch closely.
- Overcooking the pasta: Aim for al dente to avoid mushy texture.
- Skipping the pasta water: It helps emulsify the sauce and adds flavor.
- Using too much cheese: It can overpower the garlic and spice balance.
- Forgetting to season: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
For more pasta tips, check out our penne pasta guide and explore creamy dishes like creamy garlic pork chops.
The Best Way to Store Leftover Spicy Garlic Pasta Recipe
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh and flavorful:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth.
- Avoid microwaving cheese-heavy portions as it can separate the sauce.
For more storage tips, check out our guides on sun-dried tomato storage and Parmesan cheese care.
And if you’re meal prepping, this pasta holds up better than creamy dishes like homemade mac and cheese.
Ready to Give Spicy Garlic Penne Pasta a Try?
This spicy Italian pasta is everything you want in a quick, satisfying meal—garlicky, spicy, buttery, and just the right amount of creamy. Whether you’re craving chili garlic pasta or a creamy spicy pasta twist, this recipe has you covered.
Explore more flavor-packed dishes like our black pepper pasta, salt-balanced recipes, parsley-infused meals, and lemon juice pasta ideas.
Now it’s your turn—grab your ingredients, turn up the heat, and enjoy a bowl of spicy garlic penne pasta that’s as bold as it is comforting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, you can use fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this dish very spicy?
It has a moderate kick, but you can easily adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the red pepper flakes to your liking.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If making ahead, store the pasta and sauce separately and combine when reheating for the best texture.
What protein can I add?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu work well. Just cook them separately and add during the final toss.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, it’s completely vegetarian. Just ensure your Parmesan is made without animal rennet if you follow a strict vegetarian diet.
