Description
Italian drunken noodles are a hearty, flavor-packed pasta dish that combines wide egg noodles with Italian sausage, peppers, onions, and tomatoes, all simmered in a rich wine-infused sauce. The red wine deepens the flavor and blends beautifully with Italian herbs, creating a rustic, comforting meal that feels like something you’d enjoy in a countryside trattoria.
Ingredients
12 ounces wide egg noodles
1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot)
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry red wine
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
Add the sliced peppers and onion to the pan and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Return the cooked sausage to the pan, then add the drained noodles. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and sprinkle with Parmesan if desired before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute chicken or turkey sausage. The wine adds depth, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, replace it with chicken broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar richness. This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.