Italian-Style Drunken Noodles
Italian-Style Drunken Noodles are a bold, comforting pasta dish inspired by rustic Italian flavors and the classic technique of deglazing with wine. Spicy Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, tender egg noodles, and a rich tomato-based sauce come together in one satisfying meal. The splash of white wine adds depth and elegance, giving the dish its signature “drunken” character. At tinsuf, this recipe is a favorite for busy weeknights when you want something hearty, flavorful, and effortlessly impressive.
Recipe Details
- Author: tinsuf
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Category: Main Course
- Keywords: Italian drunken noodles, sausage pasta, one-pot pasta, egg noodles recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup orange bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 12 ounces egg noodles
Instructions
- Heat 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or 4-quart Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
- Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan.
- Stir in the onion, bell peppers, and garlic, cooking for about 3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Pour in the white wine and scrape the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
- Allow the wine to simmer until mostly reduced.
- Add the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Return the cooked sausage to the pan and stir in the fresh parsley.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain the noodles and add them directly to the sauce.
- Toss gently until the noodles are evenly coated, then serve hot.
Troubleshooting & Consistency Tips
If the sauce seems too thin, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth to loosen it. Be careful not to overcook the noodles, as they will continue to absorb sauce after being mixed in.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a small splash of water or broth to restore moisture. This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated just before serving, making it ideal for meal prep.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it layers flavors thoughtfully. Browning the sausage builds a savory foundation, while deglazing with white wine captures every bit of flavor from the pan. The combination of tomatoes, spices, and fresh herbs creates a balanced sauce that coats the noodles perfectly without overpowering them.
Expert Tips
- Use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat, or mild sausage for a more family-friendly version.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes an excellent finishing touch.
- For added richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter just before serving.
- Substitute chicken broth for wine if you prefer an alcohol-free version.
This Italian-Style Drunken Noodles recipe is proudly provided by tinsuf. Explore more comforting, reliable, and flavor-packed recipes to bring restaurant-quality meals to your home kitchen.