Italian Drunken Noodles: A Bold and Flavorful Italian Pasta Dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Not all pasta dishes are created equal, and these Italian Drunken Noodles prove that with their rich flavors, colorful ingredients, and a hint of white wine. Unlike traditional tomato-based or creamy pasta, this dish delivers a light yet robust sauce that clings perfectly to egg noodles, making every bite irresistibly delicious. It’s a comforting yet exciting recipe that brings classic Italian flavors with a slight twist.

Ingredients and Their Role

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz egg noodles – These wide, ribbon-like noodles soak up the sauce beautifully and provide a hearty texture.

For the Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided – Used to sauté the vegetables and brown the sausage, enhancing the flavors.
• 1 lb Italian sausage – Adds a rich, meaty depth with a touch of spice.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Provides a mild heat and depth.
• ½ cup red bell pepper, sliced – Adds natural sweetness and color.
• ½ cup yellow bell pepper, sliced – Another layer of sweetness and a vibrant hue.
• ½ cup orange bell pepper, sliced – Complements the other peppers with a slightly fruity note.
• ¼ cup onion, thinly sliced – Adds a savory and slightly sweet base flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Brings aromatic depth and a hint of sharpness.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs to enhance the Italian essence.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adds a mild spicy kick to balance the dish.
• ½ cup white wine – The secret ingredient that deglazes the pan and infuses the sauce with a subtle, tangy depth.
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained – Forms the light, flavorful base of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – Provides a fresh, herbaceous finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Italian Sausage

1. Heat ½ tablespoon olive oil in a 4-quart Dutch oven or large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
3. Once fully cooked, remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, heat the remaining ½ tablespoon olive oil.
2. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic, and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until fragrant and slightly softened.

Step 3: Deglaze with White Wine

1. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until nearly evaporated. This step enhances the depth of flavor.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
2. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to develop the flavors.
3. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and mix well.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles and Combine

1. While the sauce is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the noodles and immediately add them to the sauce.
3. Toss everything together until well-coated.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
2. Pair with a side of crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad to complete the meal.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Italian Drunken Noodles

• Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor—spicy or mild, depending on your preference.
• Don’t skip the white wine! It adds depth to the sauce and enhances the dish’s richness.
• Cook the noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy when tossed in the sauce.
• For extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
• Let the sauce simmer properly to meld the flavors together beautifully.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Italian Drunken Noodles are bold, colorful, and irresistibly delicious. This dish takes the best of Italian flavors and pairs them with a light, wine-infused sauce that coats the tender egg noodles perfectly. It’s an excellent choice when you want something unique yet comforting, making it a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.

Try this restaurant-quality pasta dish at home and experience the perfect balance of spice, richness, and freshness. Once you make it, it will surely become a family favorite!

Craving More?

For more delicious Italian recipes, subscribe to our newsletter and get the best homemade pasta dishes delivered straight to your inbox!