Italian Drunken Noodles

Italian Drunken Noodles – A Pasta Lover’s Dream 🍝

Welcome to Febkam Cooking! If you’re a pasta enthusiast, you’ve got to try these Italian Drunken Noodles. This dish takes wide, tender noodles and tosses them in a rich tomato-wine sauce with Italian sausage, bell peppers, and herbs. It’s the perfect comfort food for cozy nights or special dinners, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!


What Makes Italian Drunken Noodles So Special?

  • Bold Flavors: With garlic, herbs, and a hint of red wine, this dish is packed with aroma and taste.
  • Hearty & Comforting: Perfect for a dinner that feels both indulgent and satisfying.
  • Customizable: Easily swap in different proteins or veggies to suit your preferences.
  • Easy Enough for Weeknights: Ready in about 30 minutes, so you can impress without the stress!

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

  • 8 oz pappardelle noodles (or any wide noodle)
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine
  • 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pappardelle noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits at the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol.

5. Add Tomatoes & Simmer

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to thicken slightly.

6. Combine Everything

Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet along with the cooked noodles. Toss everything together until the noodles are coated in the sauce. Stir in the fresh basil right before serving.

7. Serve & Enjoy!

Divide the pasta into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with crusty bread and a glass of red wine for the ultimate Italian experience! 🍷


Tips for Perfect Italian Drunken Noodles

  • Use Fresh Herbs: If you have access to fresh oregano or parsley, toss some in for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Pick the Right Wine: Use a dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon to balance the dish.
  • Make It Vegetarian: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
  • Add Heat: If you like spice, double the red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.

How to Store & Reheat

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.


Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 480
  • Carbs: 45g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Fat: 22g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Fettuccine, tagliatelle, or linguine will also work well for this dish.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and toss with fresh noodles when ready to serve.

Q: What wine pairs best with this dish?
A medium-bodied red like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the flavors perfectly.


Wrap-Up

These Italian Drunken Noodles are a delightful fusion of pasta, sausage, and veggies, all coated in a rich wine-tomato sauce. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or a festive dinner with friends, it’s a dish that will impress every time.


Share the Love 🍝

Made this dish? We’d love to see it! Share your photos on social media and tag @FebkamCooking. Don’t forget to leave a comment below with your thoughts!

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