Italian drunken noodles have officially stolen my heart! I first stumbled upon this incredible dish at a little trattoria that was experimenting with Asian-Italian fusion, and let me tell you, the aroma alone was divine – a rich blend of garlic, savory sausage, and a hint of spicy chili. It’s a rustic, one-pot wonder that feels both comforting and excitingly new. The way the tender egg noodles soak up that luscious white wine and tomato sauce is pure magic. If you’re looking for an easy Italian fusion drunken noodles recipe that will impress your family, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Italian Drunken Noodles
Get ready to fall in love with this amazing Italian take on drunken noodles. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that’s big on flavor and short on cleanup.
- Incredibly quick to make: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy evenings.
- One-pot wonder: Less mess means more time enjoying your delicious meal.
- Savory Italian flavors: The combination of Italian sausage and rich tomato sauce is irresistible.
- Perfectly tender noodles: Egg noodles soak up the sauce beautifully for an amazing texture.
- Customizable spice level: Easily adjust the chili flakes for your preferred heat.
- Family-friendly: A comforting and satisfying dish everyone will ask for.
- A true Italian fusion drunken noodles success: It hits all the right notes for a delightful twist.
- Impressive yet easy: You’ll feel like a gourmet chef with this simple recipe.
Ingredients for Italian Drunken Noodles
Gather these simple ingredients to create a truly delicious Italian fusion drunken noodles dish. This recipe uses everyday items you likely have on hand, with a few special touches that make it shine.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided – for sautéing and flavor
- 450 grams Italian sausage – the savory, herbaceous heart of this dish
- 1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste – for a little bite
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that aromatic base
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend that screams Italy
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – for a gentle kick, adjust to your liking
- 120 milliliters dry white wine – adds depth and deglazes the pan
- 800 grams canned diced tomatoes, undrained – provides the saucy base
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – for a burst of freshness
- 60 grams red bell pepper, sliced – for sweetness and color
- 60 grams yellow bell pepper, sliced – adds another layer of sweetness
- 60 grams orange bell pepper, sliced – for vibrant visual appeal
- 25 grams onion, thinly sliced – adds a mild savory note
- 340 grams egg noodles – the perfect vehicle for this rich sauce
Key Ingredients Explained
The Italian sausage brings a wonderful depth of savory flavor and a hint of spice. A splash of dry white wine not only deglazes the pan, lifting delicious bits from the bottom, but also adds a sophisticated layer to the sauce. The crushed red pepper flakes are your ticket to a spicy Italian noodles experience, allowing you to control the heat. For more information on the benefits of using wine in cooking, you can check out this guide.
How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles
Let’s get this delicious Italian fusion drunken noodles dish cooking! This recipe is designed for ease and maximum flavor, transforming simple ingredients into a meal the whole family will adore. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this one-pot wonder comes together.
- Step 1: Start by browning the Italian sausage. In a large Dutch oven or a 4-quart skillet, heat 7 milliliters of olive oil over medium heat. Add the 450 grams Italian sausage and cook until it’s nicely browned and crumbly. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the pan, leaving the flavorful drippings behind, and set it aside.
- Step 2: Sauté the aromatics and vegetables. Add the remaining olive oil to the same pan. Toss in the 25 grams onion, 60 grams red bell pepper, 60 grams yellow bell pepper, and 60 grams orange bell pepper. Cook for about 3 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant. Add the 2 cloves garlic and cook for another minute until you can really smell that delicious garlic aroma.
- Step 3: Deglaze with white wine. Pour in the 120 milliliters dry white wine. Let it bubble and simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with your spoon. This is where a lot of the flavor lives! Cook until the wine has almost completely evaporated, leaving behind a wonderful concentrated essence.
- Step 4: Build the sauce. Add the 800 grams canned diced tomatoes (undrained, for extra liquid and flavor), 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon salt, and a good grind of freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Step 5: Bring it all together. Return the cooked Italian sausage to the pan. Stir in the 2 tablespoons fresh parsley. Let this simmer for another 5 minutes, just to heat everything through and let the parsley add its fresh aroma. Keep the sauce warm over low heat while you prepare the noodles.
- Step 6: Cook the egg noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 340 grams egg noodles and cook according to package directions until they are perfectly al dente – tender but with a slight bite. Drain them thoroughly.
- Step 7: Combine and serve. Add the drained egg noodles directly into the sauce in the Dutch oven or skillet. Toss everything gently but thoroughly until the noodles are completely coated in the rich, saucy goodness. Serve your amazing Italian drunken noodles immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Success
For the best Italian style drunken noodles, make sure your egg noodles are cooked al dente; they will continue to soften in the sauce. Don’t skip deglazing the pan after browning the sausage and sautéing the vegetables – those browned bits are packed with flavor that makes this dish truly special. For more tips on achieving perfect pasta texture, check out this guide.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a flawless Italian take on drunken noodles. First, brown the Italian sausage in a large pot or skillet, then remove it. Next, sauté the onions and colorful bell peppers until slightly tender, adding minced garlic for an aromatic boost. Deglaze the pan with dry white wine, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Stir in the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, then simmer to create a rich sauce. Return the sausage to the pan along with fresh parsley and cook for a few more minutes. While the sauce simmers, cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Finally, add the drained noodles to the sauce and toss well to coat. Serve your delicious spicy Italian noodles hot!
Pro Tips for the Best Italian Drunken Noodles
I’ve made this Italian drunken noodles recipe countless times, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely fantastic. They ensure you get that authentic Italian flavor with a fun noodle twist every single time.
- Always use good quality Italian sausage; the herbs and spices in it are key to the dish’s flavor.
- Don’t be afraid of the white wine! It’s essential for deglazing the pan and adds a wonderful depth of flavor that you just can’t replicate.
- Toast your Italian seasoning briefly in the hot oil before adding the vegetables. This wakes up the herbs and releases more aroma.
- Reserve some of the starchy pasta water before draining. If your sauce seems a bit too thick after combining with noodles, a splash of this will help loosen it up beautifully.
What’s the secret to perfect Italian drunken noodles?
The secret lies in building layers of flavor. Browning the sausage well, deglazing with wine to lift all those delicious browned bits, and letting the sauce simmer allows the flavors to meld into a rich, savory sauce that coats the noodles perfectly. For more on flavor layering in cooking, explore this article.
Can I make Italian drunken noodles ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the sausage up to 2 days in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, cook the noodles fresh, and combine them just before serving for the best texture. This is a great tip for meal prep, similar to other dishes you can prepare in advance, like those found here.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian drunken noodles?
A common pitfall is overcooking the egg noodles – aim for al dente as they’ll continue to cook in the sauce. Also, ensure you scrape the bottom of the pan well when deglazing with wine; those bits are pure flavor gold!
Best Ways to Serve Italian Drunken Noodles
This hearty Italian inspired noodle dish is a meal in itself, but a few simple additions can make it even more special. For a truly authentic Italian feel, consider serving it with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. A side of crusty garlic bread is also fantastic for soaking up any extra sauce. If you’re looking for a pairing that complements the spicy Italian noodles, a glass of medium-bodied red wine like a Chianti or a Sangiovese works beautifully. You can find more ideas for food pairings on our site.
Variations of Italian Drunken Noodles You Can Try
This Italian take on drunken noodles is wonderfully adaptable! Whether you’re looking for a lighter meal, more heat, or just want to mix things up, here are a few ideas to put your own spin on this delicious dish. These variations ensure there’s a perfect Italian inspired noodle dish for everyone.
Vegetarian Italian Drunken Noodles
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the Italian sausage. You can boost the flavor and texture by adding more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even some crumbled firm tofu or plant-based sausage. This makes for a hearty and satisfying meat-free Italian fusion drunken noodles. For more vegetarian inspiration, check out our vegetarian recipes.
Spicy Italian Noodles Variations
Love a little extra heat? You can easily amp up the spice level in your spicy Italian noodles recipe. Add more crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce, or for a different kind of heat, stir in a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the vegetables for an extra kick. If you enjoy spicy dishes, you might also like our spicy chicken recipe.
Nutrition Facts for Italian Drunken Noodles
This Italian fusion drunken noodles recipe offers a satisfying meal with a good balance of macronutrients. Here’s a general nutritional breakdown per serving, based on the recipe making four servings:
- Calories: 520
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of Italian sausage and any adjustments made to the recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Italian Drunken Noodles
Leftovers of this fantastic Italian take on drunken noodles are a true gift! Once your delicious Italian fusion drunken noodles have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of this Italian sausage pasta for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. If you’re interested in freezing tips for other dishes, check out our guide on freezing food.
Reheating is a breeze. For refrigerated portions, gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the noodles seem a bit dry. You can also microwave them, stirring halfway through, until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first for best results, then follow the stovetop or microwave method. Enjoying these Italian drunken noodles again is almost as good as the first time!
Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Drunken Noodles
What is the origin of Italian drunken noodles?
The concept of Italian drunken noodles is a modern fusion creation. It takes inspiration from the Thai dish Pad Kee Mao (drunken noodles) but swaps out traditional Asian ingredients for classic Italian flavors like sausage, white wine, and tomato sauce, offering a unique Italian twist.
Are Italian drunken noodles spicy?
The spice level in this Italian take on drunken noodles can be easily controlled. The recipe includes 0.5 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, which provides a mild warmth. You can easily increase this amount for a spicier Italian noodles experience or omit it if you prefer a milder dish.
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Amazing Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 40 min
- Yield: 4 Servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rustic Italian Drunken Noodles recipe that combines savory Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and egg noodles in a rich white wine and tomato sauce. This one-pot dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
- 450 grams Italian sausage
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 120 milliliters dry white wine
- 800 grams canned diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 60 grams red bell pepper, sliced
- 60 grams yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 60 grams orange bell pepper, sliced
- 25 grams onion, thinly sliced
- 340 grams egg noodles
Instructions
- In a 4 liter Dutch oven or large skillet, heat 7 milliliters olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned. Remove sausage from the pan and set aside.
- Add remaining olive oil to the same pan. Sauté onion, red, yellow, and orange bell peppers, and minced garlic until aromatic, approximately 3 minutes.
- Pour in white wine and simmer, scraping the bottom of the pan, until almost fully evaporated.
- Add diced tomatoes with juices, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
- Return browned sausage to the pan along with the chopped parsley. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Keep warm over low heat.
- Cook egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water per package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly.
- Add drained noodles to the sauce. Toss to blend and ensure proper coating. Serve immediately.
Notes
- The name ‘drunken noodles’ comes from the generous use of wine in the sauce.
- This dish reheats well and flavors develop further overnight.
- Each serving provides a balanced meal of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables.
- Consider reserving half a cup of pasta cooking water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Toast Italian seasoning in hot oil for 30 seconds before adding vegetables for deeper flavor.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after combining pasta and sauce to meld flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 recipe)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: N/A
Keywords: Italian Drunken Noodles, Italian style drunken noodles, spicy Italian noodles, pasta recipe, Italian sausage pasta, easy pasta recipe, family dinner ideas
