First things first — thank you for being here, truly! I love nothing more than sharing dishes that bring people together, and this one is exactly that kind of meal. These Italian Drunken Noodles have been a family favorite for years — so much so, we always double the batch because everyone wants seconds (and thirds!).
It’s got everything: spicy Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, a splash of wine, and tender egg noodles all wrapped up in a rich tomato sauce. One bite and you’ll see why this dish is pure comfort food — cozy, hearty, and bursting with bold Italian flavors!
Why You’ll Love These Italian Drunken Noodles
I promised you flavor, and these noodles bring it in spades. Imagine your favorite pasta dinner colliding with the warmth of a hearty Italian stew. The white wine gives the sauce depth, the peppers add sweetness, and the sausage packs every forkful with savory goodness.
Reasons to Love It
- Full of flavor: Every bite is a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and sweet.
- One-pan magic: Less mess, more comfort.
- Feeds a crowd: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- Leftovers: Just as tasty the next day!
What Do They Taste Like?
Bold, garlicky, herby, and oh-so-satisfying. The sauce clings to the noodles beautifully, while the fresh basil and parsley add brightness at the end. Anything but boring!!
Benefits of This Recipe
- Quick weeknight comfort: On the table in under 40 minutes.
- Flexible: Adjust the spice level or swap out veggies.
- Satisfying: Hearty enough for a stand-alone meal.
- Family-friendly: Kids and grown-ups all dig in happily.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this comforting dish to life:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Italian sausage (spicy or mild) | 1 lb |
| Salt | 1½ tsp |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Red bell pepper, diced | 1 |
| Yellow bell pepper, diced | 1 |
| Orange bell pepper, diced | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 4 |
| Dry white wine (like Chardonnay) | ½ cup |
| Diced tomatoes with juices | 1 (28 oz) can |
| Chopped parsley | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh basil, chopped | ¼ cup |
| Egg noodles | 12 oz |
| Fresh Parmesan cheese (optional) | For topping |
| Olive oil | For cooking |
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or deep sauté pan
- Large pot for noodles
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Colander
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
Want to switch it up? Here are some tasty tweaks:
- Use ground turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork.
- Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies.
- Use penne or fettuccine if you don’t have egg noodles.
- Substitute red wine for a deeper sauce.
How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles
1️⃣ Cook the Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Brown the Sausage:
While noodles cook, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it up as it browns. Season with salt, Italian seasoning, and pepper.
3️⃣ Add the Veggies:
Once the sausage is nearly cooked, add the diced bell peppers and cook for 5-6 minutes until tender. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4️⃣ Deglaze with Wine:
Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5️⃣ Add Tomatoes:
Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Simmer on medium-low for about 10 minutes to let flavors mingle.
6️⃣ Combine & Finish:
Add cooked noodles directly to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Stir in fresh basil and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7️⃣ Serve:
Pile onto plates, top with freshly grated Parmesan if you like, and dig in!
What to Serve With Italian Drunken Noodles
This dish is plenty hearty on its own, but here are a few tasty ideas:
- A simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Warm garlic bread for scooping up extra sauce
- A glass of the same white wine you cooked with — why not?
Tips for Success
✨ Use quality sausage: Good sausage = big flavor.
✨ Don’t overcook the noodles: They’ll finish in the sauce and soak up all that goodness.
✨ Fresh herbs matter: Basil and parsley brighten the whole dish.
✨ Deglaze well: The wine lifts all that flavor from the bottom of the pan.
Storage Instructions
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
- Freezer: Not recommended — the noodles get mushy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are they called “Drunken” Noodles?
It’s the splash of wine in the sauce! The alcohol cooks off, leaving a rich depth of flavor behind.
Can I make them ahead?
Absolutely. The sauce can be made a day in advance. Just cook fresh noodles when ready to serve.
Are they spicy?
They can be! Use spicy sausage for a kick or stick to mild if you prefer a gentler heat.
Final Thoughts
These Italian Drunken Noodles are proof that simple ingredients, cooked with love, can become something unforgettable. I hope you make a big pan, gather everyone around the table, and watch it disappear — with happy faces and full bellies all around.
More Comfort Food to Try
- Perfect Pan-Seared Ribeye Steak
- Effortless Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Family-Favorite Chicken Marinade
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
Calories: ~520 | Protein: 28g | Carbs: 55g | Fat: 20g
Here’s to bold flavors, second helpings, and meals that bring everyone back for more. Enjoy every bite — and happy cooking! 🍝❤️
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