Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe

If you’re searching for your next weeknight masterpiece, meet your new favorite fusion comfort food: Italian Drunken Noodles. This hearty bowl combines the vibrant aromas of Italian sausage, colorful peppers, and fresh herbs tossed with tender egg noodles. Every bite bursts with bold flavors thanks to a splash of white wine and a shower of Parmesan, creating a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Italian Drunken Noodles balance rustic, saucy goodness with a playful twist that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Italian Drunken Noodles lies in its simple pantry staples. Each ingredient brings its own magic—whether it’s warmth, brightness, or rich savoriness. Here’s exactly what you’ll need, plus a few pro tips for extra flavor.

• Egg noodles (12 ounces): These broad, tender noodles soak up the sauce and deliver the perfect base for every forkful.
• Ground Italian sausage (1 pound): Opt for mild or spicy—both versions lend deep, meaty flavor that anchors the dish.
• Bell peppers (2, any color): Chopped peppers add sweetness and a pop of vibrant color; mix red, yellow, or green for visual appeal.
• Minced garlic (3 teaspoons): Freshly minced garlic builds an aromatic foundation—don’t skimp here!
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of oregano, thyme, basil, and rosemary ties all the flavors together.
• White cooking wine (½ cup): This splash of wine adds depth; choose a dry variety like Pinot Grigio for the best result.
• Diced tomatoes (1 can, 28 ounces): Including just the right amount of juice keeps the sauce juicy and rich.
• Dried basil (1 tablespoon or ¼ cup fresh): Adds a sweet, herby backdrop—fresh basil enhances the aroma even more.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Add both to taste, balancing the flavors perfectly.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A generous sprinkle on top makes each plate irresistible.
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped: Bright, peppery parsley is the finishing touch that lifts the whole dish.

How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles

Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Peppers

Start by heating a large, deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Toss in the Italian sausage and chopped bell peppers. Let them cook together until the sausage is browned and the peppers are just starting to soften. This usually takes about 7 to 8 minutes and fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Use a spatula to break up any larger sausage pieces, so every bite gets a hearty mix of protein and pepper.

Step 2: Add Seasoning and Garlic

Turn the heat down to medium to avoid burning the garlic. Stir in your minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 30 seconds—just until the garlic becomes fragrant. This quick step infuses the sausage and peppers with that classic, unmistakable Italian essence that makes Italian Drunken Noodles so enticing.

Step 3: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white cooking wine, then use your spoon to scrape up any delicious, caramelized bits clinging to the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer until it reduces by about half. This not only concentrates the flavors but also brings out the subtle, fruity undertones that make this dish sing.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Basil

Time for the tomatoey goodness! Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes, juices and all. Stir in your dried or fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper. Let everything simmer away for 5 to 10 minutes, giving the sauce time to thicken and the flavors to fully develop. Your kitchen will smell like your favorite trattoria.

Step 5: Combine with Noodles

Add your cooked egg noodles directly to the pan with the sauce. Gently toss until the noodles are beautifully coated, then let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes. This step ensures the noodles soak up every last drop of that luscious, wine-infused sauce you worked so hard to create.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle a generous portion of Italian Drunken Noodles into bowls or onto plates. Finish with a flurry of freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve right away while it’s piping hot and watch everyone dive in!

How to Serve Italian Drunken Noodles

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish! Italian Drunken Noodles practically beg for a big handful of grated Parmesan—both for flavor and that luxurious melt on top. A little chopped parsley adds freshness and makes each plate look restaurant-worthy. For a kick, toss on a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of fruity olive oil.

Side Dishes

This bold pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh Caesar or mixed green salad to balance every saucy forkful. A basket of warm, crusty Italian bread is perfect for sopping up extra sauce, while roasted vegetables add a wholesome touch if you’re looking to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual gatherings, serve Italian Drunken Noodles family-style in a big, colorful ceramic bowl—let everyone help themselves! If you want to impress, plate individual servings with extra Parmesan curls and sprigs of basil. For date night, twirl the noodles into elegant nests and finish with a splash more wine in your glasses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Italian Drunken Noodles are a dream come true—just transfer any extra to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors even improve overnight, making your next meal that much tastier!

Freezing

You can freeze Italian Drunken Noodles if you’d like to make a big batch ahead of time. Cool the noodles completely, then store them in freezer-safe containers. Aim to use within 2 to 3 months for the freshest flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To revive your leftovers, warm them gently in a skillet with a splash of water or extra diced tomatoes until everything is hot and saucy again. You can also microwave individual portions, just be sure to cover so the pasta doesn’t dry out—stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

What are Italian Drunken Noodles?

Italian Drunken Noodles are a fun, satisfying fusion pasta dish combining Italian sausage, peppers, egg noodles, and a garlicky tomato-wine sauce. The name comes from the splash of wine, which adds a unique depth and a playful spirit to the meal.

Can I use a different protein instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or even crumbled tofu all work beautifully if you want to lighten things up or make the dish vegetarian. Feel free to stir in extra veggies or mushrooms for added heartiness.

Is there a substitute for egg noodles?

If you don’t have egg noodles, try fettuccine, pappardelle, or even rice noodles for a twist. The key is to use a pasta that will hold onto the sauce without getting soggy.

Which wine works best for Italian Drunken Noodles?

Select a dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The wine doesn’t need to be fancy, but using something you’d enjoy sipping will always complement the sauce.

How spicy are Italian Drunken Noodles?

The heat level depends on your sausage and any extra pepper flakes you add. For a milder version, stick to sweet Italian sausage and skip the red pepper. Craving a kick? Use hot sausage and a generous pinch of chili flakes!

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to shake up your pasta routine, Italian Drunken Noodles promise big flavors and comforting satisfaction in every bite. This dish is pure weeknight joy—give it a try and let it become your new go-to for easy, crowd-pleasing meals!

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