Italian Drunken Noodles is a bold, savory, and comforting pasta dish inspired by the fusion of Italian ingredients and the spicy flair often found in Thai cuisine. Despite its name, it has no roots in traditional Thai drunken noodles, nor does it require alcohol for intoxication although a splash of wine adds incredible depth. This recipe blends juicy Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, garlic, and fresh herbs with wide pappardelle noodles. It’s hearty, spicy, and layered with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this Italian Drunken Noodles recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.
What Are Italian Drunken Noodles?
Italian Drunken Noodles are a modern, rustic dish made with wide pasta noodles, such as pappardelle or fettuccine, tossed in a rich sauce made with Italian sausage, tomatoes, garlic, onions, bell peppers, and fresh basil. Red or white wine is often added to deglaze the pan and infuse the dish with a subtle, complex flavor. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves pasta but craves something with a little more kick and heartiness.
Ingredients for Italian Drunken Noodles
These ingredients create a flavorful balance of savory, spicy, and herby goodness:
- 12 oz pappardelle or fettuccine noodles
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium red onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or red wine
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Each of these components contributes to the richness of the dish, and you can modify the heat or herbs according to your personal preference.
How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pappardelle or fettuccine noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Once fully cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the red onion and bell peppers for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan with Wine
Pour in the wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly, which enhances the sauce with a rich and deep flavor.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Add the diced tomatoes with their juice to the skillet. Stir in Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Return Sausage and Combine
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir everything together. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 7: Toss with Noodles
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat the noodles evenly. Let it cook for 1-2 more minutes over low heat to allow the pasta to absorb some of the sauce. Stir in chopped fresh parsley or basil just before serving.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Italian Drunken Noodles hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad makes an excellent accompaniment.
Tips for the Best Italian Drunken Noodles
- Use high-quality sausage: Fresh Italian sausage adds great depth to the dish. You can choose between spicy or sweet depending on your taste.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente noodles hold up better when mixed with the hearty sauce and prevent the dish from becoming mushy.
- Customize the veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
- Add cheese last: Parmesan adds saltiness and richness, so sprinkle it right before serving.
- Deglaze with wine: Wine enhances the flavor, but if you prefer to avoid alcohol, use chicken broth or vegetable stock as a substitute.
Variations and Substitutions
Italian Drunken Noodles can be easily adapted for different diets and preferences:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients, especially sausage, are gluten-free.
- Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use plant-based alternatives or add extra vegetables like eggplant and mushrooms.
- Low-carb: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Spicier version: Use hot Italian sausage and increase red pepper flakes to turn up the heat.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, Italian Drunken Noodles store well in the refrigerator and reheat beautifully:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm on the stove with a splash of water or broth, or microwave until hot.
- Freeze: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.
What to Serve With Italian Drunken Noodles
This hearty pasta dish pairs well with lighter sides that help balance the richness:
- Mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli
- Fresh baguette or garlic bread
- Grilled zucchini or eggplant slices
Italian Drunken Noodles is a vibrant, flavorful twist on traditional pasta recipes, bringing together the best of Italian comfort food and bold seasoning. The combination of hearty sausage, tender pasta, aromatic herbs, and colorful peppers creates a memorable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you make it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Once you try this dish, you’ll understand why it has become a favorite for those who crave comfort food with character. Keep this recipe in your rotation for when you want something easy, filling, and full of bold Italian flavor.