ITALIAN DRUNKEN NOODLES

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Imagine a cozy evening in Italy, where the air is filled with the rich aroma of simmering spices and fresh herbs. That’s what you’ll experience with Italian Drunken Noodles, a delightful dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. This recipe, originally crafted by my sister during her time at a daycare, has captured the hearts of both kids and adults alike. It’s a dish that makes you want to gather around the table and savor each bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Drunken Noodles are not only deliciously satisfying, but they also bring a burst of vibrant colors to your plate with an array of diced bell peppers. The combination of spicy Italian sausage, aromatic garlic, and a touch of white wine creates a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Large, heavy-bottom pan or braising pot
Slotted spoon
Tongs

Ingredients

1 lb Italian sausage
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 red pepper, diced
1 yellow pepper, diced
1 orange pepper, diced
4 cloves garlic, pressed
1/2 cup white wine (like chardonnay)
1 can diced tomatoes with juice (28 ounce)
2 Tbsp parsley
1/4 cup basil, fresh
8 oz egg noodles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Place a large, heavy-bottom pan or braising pot over medium-high heat; add about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, crumble the spicy Italian sausage into the pan in small chunks, allowing it to brown in the oil. Once browned, remove it from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
In the same pan, add the diced bell peppers, salt, Italian seasoning, and cracked black pepper. Stir to combine and sauté for about 2 minutes until slightly tender.
Add the garlic, and once it becomes aromatic, pour in the white wine. Allow it to reduce until almost completely evaporated. Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, return the browned sausage to the pan, and gently fold the mixture to combine. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes to blend the flavors, then turn off the heat.
To finish the sauce, drizzle in 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil for a silky texture, and add the chopped parsley and half of the julienned basil. Stir to combine and keep warm while preparing the noodles.
Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain well. Add them directly into the sauce, using tongs to gently toss and combine the noodles with the sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
To serve, portion the Drunken Noodles into bowls and garnish with the remaining basil. Optionally, top with shaved Parmesan and an extra drizzle of olive oil.

Tips for Success

For a deeper flavor, allow the sausage to brown well before removing it from the pan.
Make sure to reduce the wine adequately to prevent a watery sauce.
Taste the sauce before adding the noodles to adjust seasoning if necessary.

Additional Tips or Variations

If you prefer a milder dish, use sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy. You can also substitute the egg noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist. For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 400
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 18g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the noodles fresh when ready to serve.

Can I freeze the leftovers? While the sauce freezes well, the noodles can become mushy. It’s best to freeze the sauce and cook fresh noodles when reheating.

Conclusion

Italian Drunken Noodles are a delicious way to bring a taste of Italy into your home. With its vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out for you in the comments below. We’d love to hear your variations and experiences!

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