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Italian Drunken Noodles bring together the bold flavors of savory Italian sausage, tender egg noodles, and vibrant bell peppers in a rich white wine and tomato sauce. This dish comes together quickly in one pan and offers comforting warmth with every bite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends, delivering restaurant-quality taste without the fuss.
I first made this for a last-minute birthday dinner and it disappeared from every plate so fast it became a monthly staple in our home
Ingredients
- Egg noodles: provide a tender base that soaks up the sauce beautifully Choose wide ribbons for best texture
- Ground Italian sausage: adds deep savory flavor Use a well-seasoned variety for extra punch
- Chopped bell peppers: bring natural sweetness and a slight crunch Red or yellow peppers offer great color contrast
- Minced garlic: is essential for building a fragrant flavor base Fresh garlic always makes the difference
- Italian seasoning: blends classic herbs into the dish Use a fresh aromatic blend for best results
- White cooking wine: adds depth and a touch of acidity Choose a dry variety for balanced flavor
- Diced tomatoes: create the body of the sauce Keep the juice to retain all the flavor and moisture
- Dried basil: adds a sweet herby finish Use a high-quality brand or fresh if available
- Salt and black pepper: balance the flavors Season gradually and taste as you go
- Parmesan cheese: gives a creamy salty finish Freshly grated is always best
- Fresh parsley: adds a bright garnish Use chopped leaves for color and freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté The Sausage And Peppers:
- Cook the ground Italian sausage and chopped bell peppers in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about seven to nine minutes until the sausage is nicely browned and the peppers are just tender
- Add The Garlic And Herbs:
- Reduce heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning Cook for about thirty seconds while stirring constantly to release the aromatic flavors
- Deglaze With Wine:
- Pour in the white cooking wine and scrape the bottom of the skillet to lift any browned bits Simmer until the liquid is reduced by half which takes about three to four minutes
- Build The Sauce:
- Add the diced tomatoes with their juices along with dried basil and a pinch of salt and pepper Stir thoroughly to create a cohesive sauce
- Incorporate The Noodles:
- Gently fold in the cooked egg noodles using tongs or a wooden spoon Sauté for another three to five minutes until everything is heated through
- Finish And Serve:
- Top the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley Serve immediately for the best flavor
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I use sausage from our local butcher that has just the right spice level This dish always reminds me of the time my kids surprised me by making it on Mother’s Day which made it feel like a real celebration
Storage Tips
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days
- Reheat gently in a skillet adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce
- Avoid microwaving as it can make the noodles too soft and mushy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Ground chicken or turkey work well instead of sausage for a lighter dish
- Rotini or penne pasta can be used if egg noodles are not available
- Vegetable broth can replace wine for a nonalcoholic version though the flavor will be milder
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a full meal
- Pairs well with a chilled white wine or a robust Italian red
- Top with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of good olive oil for richness
Cultural Context
Italian Drunken Noodles are a playful twist on pasta dishes cooked in wine like pasta alla vodka or other wine-infused sauces The name comes from both the cooking liquid used and the tradition of pairing this dish with a glass of spirits It is a wonderful example of how rustic Italian ingredients can be combined with refined flavors
Pro Tips
- Brown the sausage thoroughly to develop deep flavor in the pan
- Take your time reducing the wine it really deepens the overall taste
- Add the cheese off the heat to prevent clumping and keep it creamy
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Recipe FAQs
- → What type of wine is used in Italian Drunken Noodles?
White cooking wine is used to add depth and acidity, with the alcohol cooking off during simmering for balanced flavor.
- → Can I substitute the Italian sausage with another meat?
Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or beef can be used for a lighter or different flavor profile.
- → Should the diced tomatoes be drained before adding?
No, use undrained canned diced tomatoes to keep the sauce juicy and flavorful.
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Wide egg noodles are traditional, but fettuccine, linguine, or other ribbons can also be used.
- → How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge up to three days; reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water.
- → Is there an alcohol-free version of this dish?
Yes, substitute white wine with vegetable or chicken broth for a milder, non-alcoholic option.