Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe

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Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe – Bold, Saucy & Irresistibly Comforting

Introduction to Italian Drunken Noodles

Italian Drunken Noodles are a flavor-packed pasta dish that blends classic Italian comfort food with a bold, wine-infused tomato sauce. This easy weeknight recipe combines tender egg noodles, savory Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a rich white wine tomato sauce for a meal that feels indulgent yet effortless.

Inspired by rustic Italian cooking, this dish earns the name “drunken” from the generous splash of wine used to deglaze the pan, intensifying flavors and creating a silky, restaurant-quality sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a cozy homemade dinner, this Italian drunken noodles recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe

  • Quick and easy pasta dinner ready in under 40 minutes
  • Bold Italian flavors with sausage, garlic, and herbs
  • Perfect weeknight meal with pantry-friendly ingredients
  • Customizable – make it spicy, lighter, or extra cheesy
  • Comfort food classic with a modern twist

This dish is ideal for anyone who loves hearty Italian pasta recipes with rich sauces and satisfying textures.

Ingredients for Italian Drunken Noodles

Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating this rich and comforting pasta dish.

  • 12 oz egg noodles – Soft, tender, and perfect for soaking up sauce
  • 1 lb ground Italian sausage – Adds savory depth and bold seasoning
  • 2 bell peppers, chopped – Sweetness, color, and crunch
  • 3 tsp minced garlic – Aromatic flavor base
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A classic herb blend
  • ½ cup white cooking wine – Deglazes and enriches the sauce
  • 28 oz diced tomatoes (with juice) – Tangy, juicy sauce foundation
  • 1 Tbsp dried basil – Enhances tomato flavor
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste – Balances the dish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese – Nutty, salty finish
  • Fresh chopped parsley – Freshness and visual appeal

How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked. Break it into crumbles as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add chopped bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 4: Build the Flavor

Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white cooking wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer until the wine reduces by about half.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce

Add diced tomatoes with their juice, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and simmer for 5–10 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Fold in the cooked noodles and toss until evenly coated and heated through. Serve hot with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Pro Tips for the Best Italian Drunken Noodles

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor
  • Red or yellow bell peppers add extra sweetness
  • Keep noodles slightly firm so they don’t overabsorb the sauce
  • Deglazing the pan properly adds depth and richness
  • Let the sauce simmer briefly to concentrate flavors

Variations and Substitutions

Spicy Italian Drunken Noodles

  • Add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage

Lighter Version

  • Use chicken or turkey sausage
  • Reduce Parmesan or use part-skim cheese

Vegetarian Option

  • Replace sausage with mushrooms or plant-based sausage
  • Add zucchini or spinach for extra veggies

Creamy Twist

  • Stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese

Serving Suggestions

This Italian drunken noodles pasta pairs beautifully with:

  • Garlic bread or focaccia
  • Crisp Caesar salad or arugula salad
  • Roasted vegetables
  • A glass of dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water
  • Make-ahead friendly: Flavors deepen overnight

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red wine instead of white?
Yes, red wine adds a deeper, bolder flavor but will change the sauce color slightly.

Are egg noodles required?
No—penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine also work well.

Can I freeze Italian drunken noodles?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

This Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe proves that bold, comforting food doesn’t have to be complicated. With savory sausage, tender noodles, and a rich wine-infused tomato sauce, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your own kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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