Creamy Spicy Penne with Fresh Basil & Chili Oil Drizzle
This creamy spicy penne recipe is everything your weeknight dinner dreams are made of: simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a bold flavor that makes it feel just a little fancy. The sauce is luscious, the spice level is totally customizable, and the chili oil drizzle? Chef’s kiss. It’s comfort food that doesn’t judge your messy kitchen or your toddler eating cereal for dinner.
Whether you're cooking for your family or just need a 20-minute joy-filled escape with carbs, this spicy penne delivers.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
12 oz penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional but amazing)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup tomato paste
1/2 cup vegetable broth (or pasta water)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil, torn
Chili oil, for drizzling (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Sauté the aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add minced garlic and shallots and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Build the sauce
Add tomato paste and stir until it darkens slightly—about 2 minutes. Pour in the broth (or reserved pasta water) and stir to loosen the sauce. Add heavy cream and simmer gently until everything is creamy and dreamy.
Toss the pasta
Add the cooked penne to the sauce and stir to coat. Sprinkle in the Parmesan and stir until melted and silky.
Serve with flair
Plate the pasta and top with torn basil. Drizzle with chili oil to taste (a little goes a long way). Serve immediately and brace yourself for happy sighs.
Tips & Substitutions
No cream? Sub with whole milk + a little butter or dairy-free alternatives.
Want it meatier? Add grilled chicken or Italian sausage.
Too spicy? Scale back the red pepper flakes or skip the chili oil for the kiddos.
Add-ins? Toss in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted veggies to level it up.
It's quick enough for busy weeknights and features a bold, creamy, and slightly fiery flavor that is kid-approved with a few tweaks. The dish is Instagram-worthy without any pressure, perfect for sharing. Save this recipe by pinning, printing, or simply remembering it, because once you've made it, you'll want to make it again. Mess is inevitable, but a joyful dinner is guaranteed.
We'd love to hear how you personalized it in the comments, and don’t forget to tag us @messyjoyshow when you share your spicy penne masterpieces!
