This Italian Drunken Noodle Recipe Will Make You the Hero of Family Dinner Nights!

Italian Drunken Noodle Recipe

Why Make This Recipe?
The Italian Drunken Noodle Recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender noodles with rich, savory Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and a splash of white wine for an elevated twist. It’s easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The best part? It looks fancy but takes minimal effort—ideal for impressing your family or guests without breaking a sweat!

Recipe Overview

  • Servings: 4
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles

Ingredients

  • For the Pasta:
    • 12 oz wide egg noodles or pappardelle pasta ????
    • 1 tbsp olive oil ????
  • For the Sauce:
    • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
    • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced ????
    • 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), thinly sliced ????️
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced ????
    • ½ cup dry white wine ????
    • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice ????
    • 1 tsp Italian seasoning ????
    • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) ????️
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For Garnish:
    • ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped ????
    • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese ????

Directions

  1. Cook the Pasta
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.
    • Drain, drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
  2. Cook the Sausage
    • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula.
    • Once fully cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables
    • In the same skillet, add the onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
    • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Deglaze with Wine
    • Pour the white wine into the skillet, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the wine reduces slightly.
  5. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
    • Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Combine Everything
    • Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
    • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
  7. Garnish and Serve
    • Sprinkle fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

How to Serve Italian Drunken Noodles

Serve this dish warm in large bowls, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

How to Store Italian Drunken Noodles

  1. Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  2. Freeze: Freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  3. Reheat: Warm the noodles in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.

Tips to Make Italian Drunken Noodles

  1. Use Fresh Pasta: Fresh pasta gives this dish an authentic Italian feel.
  2. Pick Quality Wine: Use a dry white wine you enjoy drinking for the best flavor.
  3. Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Slightly undercook the pasta since it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.

Variations

  1. Vegetarian Version: Substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a meatless option.
  2. Spicy Twist: Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
  3. Cheesy Addition: Stir in ½ cup of ricotta cheese for a creamy, cheesy texture.

Tips for Success

  • Prep Ahead: Slice the vegetables and measure the ingredients beforehand to make cooking seamless.
  • Season Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning for perfect flavor balance.
  • Use a Large Skillet: Ensure there’s enough room to toss the pasta and sauce evenly.

How Many Servings?

This recipe makes 4 hearty servings.

Calories and Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~480
  • Protein: ~25g
  • Fats: ~18g
    • Saturated Fats: ~6g
  • Carbohydrates: ~48g
    • Fiber: ~5g
  • Sodium: ~850mg

Health Benefits of Italian Drunken Noodles

  1. Protein-Packed: Italian sausage provides essential protein for muscle repair and energy.
  2. Nutrient-Dense Veggies: Bell peppers and tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C and antioxidants.
  3. Whole Ingredients: Using fresh herbs and a good-quality wine adds flavor without extra additives.

Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?

Yes, with a few adjustments:

  1. Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium canned tomatoes and sausage to reduce salt.
  2. Easy to Chew: The tender noodles and cooked vegetables are soft and easy to digest.
  3. Balanced Fats: Opt for lean sausage or ground turkey for a lighter dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish alcohol-free?
Yes, replace the white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.

2. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Swap the egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce and store it separately from the pasta. Combine and reheat just before serving.

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