One-Pot Spicy Penne Arrabiata with Sausage: A Flavorful 30-Minute Weeknight Delight
Transform your weeknights with this incredibly quick and satisfying One-Pot Spicy Penne Arrabiata. Bursting with savory turkey sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and a robust, spicy tomato sauce, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, all in a single pot! It’s the ultimate hassle-free, flavor-packed meal that simplifies dinner time without compromising on taste, making it a perfect healthier pasta option.
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Essential Ingredients and Smart Substitutions for Your Spicy Penne Arrabiata
Crafting a truly delicious one-pot meal begins with understanding your ingredients. This section breaks down each essential component of our Spicy Penne Arrabiata with sausage and offers flexible substitutions, ensuring you can whip up this meal even when your pantry isn’t fully stocked or if you have specific dietary preferences. Choosing quality ingredients will always elevate the final flavor of your homemade pasta.
- Olive oil – A good quality olive oil forms the flavorful base of this pasta dish. While extra virgin olive oil offers a richer taste, any neutral cooking oil like peanut oil, sunflower oil, or vegetable oil will work just as well for sautéing the sausage and aromatics.
- Turkey sausage links – I’m using lean turkey sausage in this recipe as a healthier, lighter option, offering a subtle savory flavor. However, you can easily substitute it with hot or mild Italian pork sausage for a more traditional taste, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based veggie sausage for a vegetarian version. Ensure to brown the sausage well for maximum flavor.
- Yellow onion – This aromatic provides a sweet and savory base to our sauce. White onion, shallots, or even red onions can be used as excellent alternatives, each contributing a slightly different nuanced sweetness to the dish.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic delivers the most potent and delicious flavor profile. If fresh cloves aren’t available, jarred minced garlic will still work effectively, offering a convenient alternative without significantly compromising the taste of the sauce.
- Red chili flakes – These are the star ingredient that give “Arrabiata” its signature “angry” spice! The amount of chili flakes can be adjusted to your personal spice tolerance: use less for a milder warmth, or add more for an intense, fiery kick. If you don’t have flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small amount of finely diced fresh red chili can also provide the desired heat.
- Diced tomatoes – Canned diced tomatoes provide a robust, tangy foundation for the sauce. While fresh tomatoes can be blanched, peeled, and diced, canned varieties are convenient and consistently flavorful. If you can’t find diced, canned chopped tomatoes or even crushed tomatoes will work well, offering a slightly different texture to the sauce.
- Tomato sauce – This helps create a smooth and cohesive sauce texture. If you don’t have jarred tomato sauce on hand, you can create a suitable substitute by combining tomato paste with an equal amount of water or vegetable broth, then simmering to develop flavor.
- Penne pasta – Penne rigate, with its ridged surface and angled ends, is traditionally paired with Arrabiata sauce as its groves are perfect for catching and holding the rich sauce. If penne is unavailable, rigatoni, fusilli (spiral pasta), or mostaccioli pasta are excellent substitutes that also hold up well in a chunky sauce.
- Red bell pepper – Red bell peppers are sweeter than their green counterparts and contribute a beautiful color and a mild, sweet crunch that complements the spicy tomato sauce. If you don’t have red, yellow or orange bell peppers are great alternatives. You can also omit it entirely or add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Fresh basil – A generous garnish of fresh basil adds a burst of herbaceous aroma and brightness to the finished dish, cutting through the richness of the sauce. While fresh is best, if unavailable, you can simply leave this off altogether or use a sprinkle of dried basil in the cooking process (though the fresh impact will be missed).
- Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan cheese offers a salty, umami depth and creamy texture when melted into the hot pasta. Shredded mozzarella or Pecorino Romano would also be delicious alternatives, providing different savory notes and melt properties.
- Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors in the dish. Always taste and adjust to your preference throughout the cooking process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your One-Pot Spicy Penne Arrabiata
Creating this flavorful One-Pot Spicy Penne Arrabiata is incredibly straightforward, perfect for those busy weeknights. Follow these simple steps to bring a taste of Italy to your table with minimal effort and cleanup.
- **Cook and Slice the Turkey Sausage:** Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the turkey sausage links, searing them for about 2-3 minutes per side until beautifully browned and cooked through. This initial browning is crucial for developing deep, savory flavors that will permeate the entire dish. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pot and let it cool slightly on a cutting board before slicing it into bite-sized rounds or crumbles. Set aside.
- **Sauté the Aromatics:** Return the pot to the stove (no need to clean it – those browned bits add incredible flavor!). Add the diced yellow onion to the residual oil in the pot and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften and turn translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
- **Season and Combine Flavors:** Introduce the sliced turkey sausage back into the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Season generously with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Now for the signature Arrabiata kick: stir in the 1/2 teaspoon of red chili flakes. Sauté everything together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse their flavors, creating a wonderfully aromatic base.
- **Build the Sauce Base:** Pour in the 1 (796mL) can of diced tomatoes (including their juices), the 1 (680mL) jar of tomato sauce, and 1 1/2 cups of water. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, making sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pot, which will enrich the sauce. Bring this flavorful liquid mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- **Add Pasta and Simmer:** Once the sauce is boiling, add the 1 pound of dried penne pasta to the pot, ensuring it is submerged as much as possible in the liquid. Give it a good stir, then cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom and to ensure even cooking. The pasta should be al dente – tender with a slight bite – and most of the liquid should be absorbed, leaving you with a rich, thick sauce.
- **Stir in Bell Peppers:** Just before the pasta is fully cooked, uncover the pot and stir in the 1 chopped red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the bell pepper to soften slightly while retaining a pleasant crunch and vibrant color. This adds a lovely freshness and a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the spicy tomato base.
- **Garnish and Serve:** Ladle generous portions of your steaming One-Pot Spicy Penne Arrabiata into bowls. For the perfect finish, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil and a generous amount of fresh grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and savor this homemade, hearty, and intensely flavorful one-pot meal!
The Fiery Origin: Why is it Called Penne Arrabiata?
The name ‘Arrabiata’ is derived from the Italian word ‘arrabbiato,’ which directly translates to ‘angry.’ While it might sound amusing for a pasta dish, the name perfectly encapsulates the fiery character of this classic sauce. The ‘anger’ comes from the generous amount of red chili peppers (peperoncino) used to create its signature spicy kick and its vibrant red hue. Legend has it that the sauce is so potent and flavorful it makes you ‘angry’ with delight, or perhaps even causes a pleasant ‘flush’ to the face, resembling an angry disposition. This Roman-origin sauce is a testament to Italy’s diverse culinary landscape, offering a bold and passionate flavor profile that stands out from milder tomato-based sauces. When you crave pasta that truly awakens your taste buds with a robust, spicy warmth, Penne Arrabiata delivers a delightfully ‘angry’ experience, a delicious treat when you’re craving a really flavourful pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Penne Arrabiata
Absolutely, arrabiata sauce is known for its distinct spicy profile! The heat primarily comes from red chili flakes (peperoncino) which are an essential ingredient in traditional arrabiata. However, the level of spiciness is entirely within your control. You can easily adjust the amount of red chili flakes you add to the sauce – use less for a gentle warmth or more for a fiery, exhilarating kick that truly lives up to the ‘angry’ name. This recipe provides a balanced heat that is flavorful without being overwhelmingly intense for most palates.
This hearty and delicious One-Pot Spicy Penne Arrabiata offers approximately 361 calories per serving. This makes it a fantastic option for a satisfying meal that fits well within many dietary plans, especially when you’re looking for a flavorful pasta dish without excessive calories. The use of lean turkey sausage also contributes to its healthier profile, ensuring you get a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
Both arrabiata and marinara sauces share a common base of tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, resulting in their characteristic red color. However, their key difference lies in their flavor profile and the addition of one crucial ingredient. Marinara sauce is typically milder and often slightly sweeter, focusing on the fresh, bright taste of tomatoes and sometimes a hint of herbs. Arrabiata sauce, on the other hand, is distinguished by its vibrant spiciness, achieved through the inclusion of red chili flakes. If you were to omit the chili flakes from an arrabiata recipe, you would essentially have a very similar flavor profile to a robust marinara, but it’s the chili that gives arrabiata its unique and beloved character.
To complement the rich and spicy flavors of this Penne Arrabiata, consider serving it with a light, refreshing side. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast and cuts through the richness. Crusty garlic bread or a warm focaccia is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious sauce. For a protein boost, grilled chicken or a white fish can be a great addition, though the turkey sausage in this recipe already makes it a complete meal.
Certainly! This One-Pot Spicy Penne Arrabiata can be easily adapted for a vegetarian diet. Simply omit the turkey sausage entirely, or substitute it with your favorite plant-based sausage alternative. You could also add other hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas to maintain a satisfying texture and protein content. Ensure to use vegetable broth instead of water if you prefer to enhance the savory depth.
Storing and Reheating Your One-Pot Spicy Penne Arrabiata for Best Results
This One-Pot Spicy Penne Arrabiata is not only fantastic for a fresh dinner but also shines as a meal prep staple! Once your pasta has completely cooled to room temperature, divide it into individual airtight containers. These portions can be stored safely in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it an ideal candidate for healthy, delicious lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. For optimal taste and safety, ensure the pasta is cooled quickly before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth and maintain freshness.
When you’re ready to enjoy your prepped pasta, simply remove an individual serving from the fridge. For quick reheating, pop it into the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through. A valuable tip to prevent the pasta from drying out and to revive its creamy texture is to sprinkle a tablespoon or two of water over the top before microwaving. This adds back some moisture, resulting in a fresher, more palatable experience. Finish with a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan cheese over top for an extra touch of flavor.
Effortless Meal Prep: Freezing Your Spicy Penne Arrabiata
Good news for meal prep enthusiasts: this Spicy Penne Arrabiata freezes exceptionally well, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful dish even months down the line! To freeze, ensure the pasta is completely cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. High-quality glass meal prep containers are particularly excellent for freezing any type of cooked meal, as they are durable, microwave-safe, and prevent freezer burn more effectively than plastic. You can store frozen portions for up to 3 months, ensuring you always have a delicious, homemade meal ready to go.
When you’re craving a quick, comforting meal, simply retrieve a serving from the freezer. There’s no need to thaw beforehand! Sprinkle a small amount of water (about 1-2 tablespoons) over the frozen pasta to help maintain moisture during reheating. Microwave the pasta for approximately 7-8 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating and a consistent texture. The pasta reheats beautifully, emerging as creamy and delicious as when it was first made, making it a perfect solution for busy schedules and convenient future meals.
Explore More Delicious One-Pot Pasta Recipes
- The Easiest One Pot Pasta Primavera
- Healthy One Pot Broccoli Pasta Alfredo
- The Creamiest One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Recommended Meal Prep Tools
- Grab some glass meal prep bowls if you plan on turning this recipe into your weekly lunches.
One-Pot Spicy Penne Arrabiata with Sausage
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Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 turkey sausage links
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
- 1 (796mL) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (680mL) jar tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 lb dried penne pasta
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- chopped fresh basil, for garnish
- Fresh grated parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
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In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil on med-high heat. Add turkey sausage, searing for about 2-3 minutes per side until beautifully browned. Once cooked, remove and slice into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
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Add onion and garlic to the pot (with residual oil) and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
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Add the sliced sausage pieces back into the pan, then add salt, pepper and red chili flakes. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes, allowing spices to bloom.
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Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the penne pasta, stir, then cover with a lid and cook on medium-low, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until pasta is fork tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
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Stir in the chopped red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until slightly softened but still vibrant.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil overtop! Enjoy your delicious One-Pot Spicy Penne Arrabiata.
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Notes
You can easily make your own turkey sausage from ground turkey by seasoning it with fennel seeds, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This gives you full control over the flavor.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For best results, sprinkle a little water over the pasta before reheating in the microwave for 1-2 minutes to prevent it from drying out.
This pasta freezes beautifully! For longer storage, freeze portions in glass meal prep containers for up to 3 months. When reheating from frozen, microwave for 7-8 minutes, stirring halfway through, and add a splash of water for optimal texture.
Nutrition
