These Italian Drunken Noodles are a flavorful twist on the classic “drunken” pasta concept, combining spicy Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, aromatic herbs, and a splash of white wine for a rich, saucy dish. Tossed with silky egg noodles and finished with fresh basil and Parmesan, this recipe is hearty, comforting, and perfect for any occasion.
📋 Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild, as preferred)
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 red pepper , diced
- 1 yellow pepper , diced
- 1 orange pepper , diced
- 4 cloves garlic , minced
- ½ cup white wine (like Chardonnay)
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juice (28 oz)
- 2 Tbsp parsley , chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil , julienned (reserve half for garnish)
- 12 oz egg noodles
- Fresh Parmesan cheese , optional for garnish
- Olive oil , as needed
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Place a large, heavy-bottom pan or braising pot over medium-high heat . Add about 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan.
- Once the oil is hot, crumble the Italian sausage into the pan in small chunks. Cook for 5–7 minutes , stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside in a small bowl.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add the diced bell peppers , salt , Italian seasoning , and black pepper . Stir to combine.
- Sauté the peppers for 2 minutes , or until slightly tender.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds , until aromatic.
Step 3: Deglaze with White Wine
- Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to reduce for 2–3 minutes , until almost completely evaporated.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
- Add the diced tomatoes with their juice to the pan. Stir to combine.
- Drizzle in 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil to create a silky, rich texture.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and half of the julienned basil .
- Return the browned Italian sausage to the pan and gently fold it into the sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3–4 minutes to blend the flavors. Turn off the heat and keep warm.
Step 5: Cook the Egg Noodles
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them well to prevent excess moisture from watering down the sauce.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
- Add the drained noodles directly into the sauce. Use tongs to gently toss and coat the noodles evenly with the sauce and ingredients.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Divide the “Drunken” noodles into bowls. Garnish with the remaining julienned basil , shaved Parmesan cheese , and an extra drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Sausage Options: Use spicy Italian sausage for a kick or mild sausage for a family-friendly version. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
- Wine Choice: A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio works best. If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with chicken broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
- Herb Substitutions: If fresh basil isn’t available, use dried basil (1 teaspoon) or substitute with spinach or arugula for a leafy green twist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Freezing: Freeze the sauce and noodles separately for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian Drunken Noodles recipe is a symphony of bold flavors and textures. The spicy Italian sausage adds depth, while the colorful bell peppers bring sweetness and vibrancy. The white wine reduction creates a luxurious base, and the fresh herbs elevate the dish with brightness. Tossed with silky egg noodles, this dish is both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, these noodles are sure to impress. Dive into this rich, flavorful dish and let it become a staple in your kitchen!
⏱ Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
🍽 Servings:
4–6 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~450 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and toppings)
