Italian Drunken Noodles is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings a unique twist to traditional pasta. Made with a rich, garlicky tomato-wine sauce, tender noodles, and a touch of spice, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. It’s a wonderful option for a cozy dinner or a gathering, offering a satisfying taste of Italy right at your table.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a perfect blend of bold flavors and textures. The Italian sausage adds heartiness, while the garden-fresh vegetables bring a colorful crunch. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. You will enjoy the comforting feeling of a warm pasta dish that’s both delicious and filling.
How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles
Ingredients:
- 12 oz wide pasta (fettuccine, pappardelle, or linguine)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 10-12 oz Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or red wine
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil (optional drizzle)
Directions:
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add onion, bell peppers, and zucchini to the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Pour in the wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Then add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and drizzle with olive oil if desired. Garnish with fresh basil and extra cheese.
How to Serve Italian Drunken Noodles
Serve Italian Drunken Noodles hot, directly from the pan. You can offer extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who love extra flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Italian Drunken Noodles
To store your Italian Drunken Noodles, let the leftovers cool first. Then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a pan on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Italian Drunken Noodles
- For extra flavor, consider adding some fresh herbs like parsley right before serving.
- Adjust the spice level by using hot Italian sausage or increasing the chili flakes.
- If you want a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version of this dish by replacing the sausage with mushrooms or lentils for protein. Also, feel free to mix in any other vegetables you have on hand, such as spinach or cherry tomatoes.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute with any wide pasta like rigatoni or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
2. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! You can adjust the spiciness by using mild sausage and reducing chili flakes.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Cook the pasta fresh before serving.
Italian Drunken Noodles
Ingredients
Method
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add onion, bell peppers, and zucchini to the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Pour in the wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Then add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and drizzle with olive oil if desired. Garnish with fresh basil and extra cheese.
