Spicy Tomato Pasta Recipe – Quick Italian Comfort Food

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Spicy Tomato Pasta Recipe – Quick Italian Comfort Food

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, sometimes you just need a comforting bowl of pasta. And not just any pasta – something with a little kick! This spicy tomato pasta is my go-to when I’m craving something quick, easy, and seriously flavorful. I first made this when I was a student and needed a satisfying meal that wouldn’t take hours to prepare. It’s been a family favorite ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, uses simple ingredients you probably already have, and is totally customizable to your spice preference. Plus, it’s just plain delicious! It’s the perfect weeknight meal when you want something comforting without a ton of fuss.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this spicy tomato pasta:

• 1 cup pasta (about 200g)
• 4 cups water (950ml)
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• ½ cup onion, chopped
• 1 cup tomato puree (about 240ml)
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (or more, to taste!)
• ½ teaspoon mixed herbs
• ½ teaspoon crushed pepper
• 1 tablespoon tomato sauce
• Cheese, for garnish (Parmesan is classic, but anything you like works!)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec – a few little things can make a big difference!

• Pasta: I usually use penne, fusilli, or spaghetti for this, but honestly, any short pasta shape will work beautifully.
• Tomato Puree: A good quality tomato puree really shines here. Look for one that’s rich and flavorful.
• Chili Flakes: This is where you control the heat! Start with ½ teaspoon and add more if you like things really spicy. Kashmiri chili flakes give a lovely color and mild heat, if you can find them.
• Mixed Herbs: I love using an Italian herb blend, but you can also use a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme. Fresh herbs are amazing if you have them, just add them towards the end of cooking.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil in a saucepan. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until it’s al dente – that means it should still have a little bite to it. Before you drain the pasta, remember to reserve about ¾ cup of that pasta water. It’s liquid gold, trust me!
2. Give the cooked pasta a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and set it aside. This prevents it from sticking together.
3. Now, heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté until they’re golden brown and fragrant. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
4. Pour in the tomato puree and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the raw smell disappears.
5. Time to add the spice! Mix in the chili flakes, mixed herbs, crushed pepper, and tomato sauce. Then, add a splash of that reserved pasta water – about ¼ cup to start – and simmer for about a minute. The pasta water helps create a lovely, emulsified sauce.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Add more pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, if the sauce seems too thick.
7. Finally, serve hot and garnish generously with grated cheese. A sprinkle of fresh parsley is also a nice touch!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the pasta! Al dente is key for the best texture.
• Reserving pasta water is a game-changer. The starch in the water helps bind the sauce and pasta together.
• Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Variations

• Add Veggies: Throw in some sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. My kids love it when I sneak in some finely chopped carrots!
• Protein Boost: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage would be delicious additions.
• Creamy Tomato Pasta: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.

Vegan Adaptation

Want to make this vegan? It’s super easy! Just skip the cheese garnish, or use a vegan parmesan alternative.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta! There are tons of great options available now.

Spice Level Adjustment

Don’t be afraid to play with the spice level. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with just a pinch of chili flakes. If you like it fiery, add more! A dash of cayenne pepper can also give it an extra kick.

Quick Weeknight Version

Short on time? Use pre-minced garlic and pre-chopped onions. It’ll save you a few precious minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is great on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any short pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or rotini works well. Spaghetti is also a good option!

Can I make this pasta sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the sauce a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before adding the pasta.

How can I adjust the spice level of this dish?

Start with a small amount of chili flakes and add more to taste. You can also use different types of chili flakes for varying levels of heat.

What is the best way to reserve pasta water?

Before draining the pasta, use a measuring cup to scoop out about ¾ cup of the cooking water.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato puree?

You can, but you’ll need to peel and chop about 4-5 ripe tomatoes and cook them down for a longer time to create a similar consistency to tomato puree.