Name: Spicy Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice); 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/2 tsp sugar (optional); Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish); Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for serving)

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This Spicy Tomato Pasta is one of my favorite quick and satisfying meals. It brings together the comfort of a rich tomato sauce with a fiery kick that wakes up the taste buds. When I want something simple but bold, this is the dish I turn to—it’s ready in minutes and always full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy and adaptable this recipe is. I can throw it together with pantry staples and still end up with something that tastes like it came from a restaurant. The sauce is made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes for heat. It clings beautifully to the pasta and can be adjusted to suit any spice level. It’s perfect for a solo dinner or a cozy weeknight meal with family or friends. Spicy Tomato Pasta

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta (spaghetti, penne, or any shape I like)
Olive oil
Garlic (minced)
Red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Salt
Black pepper
Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Directions

I start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. I reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
In a large pan, I heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
I add red pepper flakes and stir briefly to release the flavor.
I pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of sugar if needed. I let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
I add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce and toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
I serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan if I’m in the mood.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 to 3 people.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

I like to make this recipe my own depending on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add sautéed onions or a splash of white wine to the sauce. For a creamy twist, I stir in a spoonful of mascarpone or cream. If I want extra protein, I toss in cooked shrimp, spicy Italian sausage, or grilled chicken. I’ve even used it as a base for a spicy baked pasta dish with mozzarella on top.

Storage/reheating

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. It also reheats nicely in the microwave—just cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. I avoid freezing this dish since the texture of the pasta can become mushy. Spicy Tomato Pasta

FAQs

How spicy is this pasta?

The spice level is totally up to me. I usually start with 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes and add more if I want a stronger kick.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, I’ve made it with fresh tomatoes (blanched and peeled) during summer, and it adds a lovely freshness to the sauce. Just cook them down a bit longer.

What type of pasta works best?

I often use spaghetti, but penne, rigatoni, or linguine also hold up well to the sauce. I just use whatever pasta I have in the pantry.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to eat, I reheat the sauce and cook the pasta fresh.

Is there a way to make it less acidic?

If the sauce tastes too acidic, I stir in a pinch of sugar or a tiny splash of milk or cream to balance it out.

Conclusion

This Spicy Tomato Pasta is one of those simple dishes that never lets me down. With bold flavor, minimal ingredients, and endless ways to customize, it’s a recipe I always keep in my back pocket. Whether I’m cooking for one or serving guests, it’s fast, flavorful, and totally satisfying.