Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and chili flakes and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until garlic is fragrant and just starting to soften. Stir in the tomato paste.
Add in the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and sugar and bring to a steady simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking for 15 minutes – stirring occasionally. In the meantime, make your pasta.
Fill a large pot with water and a dash of salt. Place over a medium-high heat and bring water to a rolling boil. Add penne and cook for 8 to 9 minutes, or until pasta is al dente. Drain pasta well.
Stir the cooked pasta into the sauce. Add in the basil and stir well to combine.
Serve pasta warm, with plenty of grated Parmesan cheese!
