How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles at Home
Italian Drunken Noodles are a delightful fusion of rich Italian flavors and a bold twist that will leave your taste buds craving more. This dish features tender noodles tossed in a robust sauce made with savory Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, onions, and a splash of red wine for depth and complexity. It’s an easy yet impressive meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering with friends. The combination of ingredients creates a flavor explosion that’s truly irresistible.
A Family Favorite: How Italian Drunken Noodles Became a Weekly Staple
The first time I made Italian Drunken Noodles, it was meant to be just another pasta night. But as the rich aroma of the simmering sauce filled our kitchen, I knew this dish was something special. My husband, a pasta lover through and through, took one bite and declared it a new favorite. Now, it’s a dish we look forward to every week. It’s not just the taste; it’s the way this recipe brings us together around the table, enjoying each other’s company while savoring a truly delicious meal. Even on the busiest days, I know I can rely on this recipe to turn an ordinary dinner into something extraordinary.
Why You’ll Love Italian Drunken Noodles
- Bold Flavors: The combination of Italian sausage, red wine, and fresh herbs creates a rich and satisfying dish.
- Simple Ingredients: You can whip up this dish with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- Versatile: Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner but impressive enough for entertaining guests.
- Customizable: Easy to adjust with your favorite vegetables, meats, or pasta types.
Ingredients Notes For Italian Drunken Noodles
- Italian Sausage: Adds a savory, slightly spicy flavor. You can use mild or hot sausage depending on your preference.
- Pappardelle or Egg Noodles: Wide, flat noodles work best to soak up the rich sauce.
- Red Wine: Enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce. Choose a wine that you enjoy drinking.
- Bell Peppers and Onions: Add sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
- Garlic: A must-have for that classic Italian taste.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Forms the base of the sauce, providing a rich and hearty texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Basil and parsley add freshness and elevate the dish.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Italian Drunken Noodles
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add 1 sliced onion and 2 sliced bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the Wine: Pour in 1/2 cup of red wine and scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Let the wine reduce by half.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes and return the sausage to the skillet. Simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Noodles: Meanwhile, cook 12 ounces of pappardelle or egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked noodles with the sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and parsley before serving.
Storage Options
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
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Variations & Substitutions
- Meat Options: Substitute the Italian sausage with ground beef, turkey, or even chicken for a different twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Different Pasta: While pappardelle is recommended, you can use any pasta you prefer, like fettuccine or even spaghetti.
- Non-Alcoholic: If you prefer to avoid alcohol, substitute the red wine with beef broth or vegetable broth for a similar depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use a different type of wine for this recipe?
A1: Yes, a dry white wine can also work, but it will give the dish a lighter flavor. Red wine provides a richer, more robust taste.
Q2: What’s the best way to make this dish spicier?
A2: Use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! The flavors actually improve if made a day ahead. Just reheat on the stovetop before serving.
Q4: What can I serve with Italian Drunken Noodles?
A4: This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables.
Q5: Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
A5: Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of regular noodles.
How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles at Home
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pappardelle or wide fettuccine noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage spicy or sweet, casings removed
- 1 large onion sliced
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper sliced
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup red wine such as Chianti
- 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional for heat
- Fresh basil leaves torn (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pappardelle or wide fettuccine noodles in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for adjusting the sauce later if needed.
Brown the Sausage:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Deglaze with Wine:
- Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by half.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Combine with Sausage and Noodles:
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the sauce. Add the cooked noodles, tossing well to ensure they are fully coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the Italian Drunken Noodles with torn fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
