Italian Drunken Noodles

 Italian Drunken Noodles: A Flavor-Packed Fusion Dish You Can’t Resist

Why You’ll Love This Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe

If you're looking for a dish that’s bold, comforting, and incredibly flavorful, Italian Drunken Noodles will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. This fusion of Italian and Thai cuisine brings together the rich, savory goodness of Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and a garlic-infused tomato broth, all tossed with tender, silky egg noodles. The result? A dish that’s both hearty and irresistibly delicious.

What makes this recipe stand out is the depth of flavor—a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and umami. The fresh basil and crushed red pepper give it a signature kick, while the broth coats every noodle in mouthwatering goodness. Whether you're cooking for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this dish never disappoints!

---

Ingredients and Their Essential Roles

For the Noodles:

12 oz wide egg noodles – These absorb the sauce beautifully, giving the dish a silky, rich texture.

For the Sauce and Protein:

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy) – Adds depth and savoriness with a touch of spice, depending on your preference.

2 tbsp olive oil – Enhances the richness of the sauce and helps brown the sausage for maximum flavor.

1 small onion, thinly sliced – Brings a natural sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for infusing the dish with bold, aromatic flavor.

1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips – Provides a hint of sweetness and a vibrant color contrast.

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips – Adds a mild, fruity note that complements the sauce.

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Bursts of natural sweetness enhance the overall balance.

1/2 cup dry white wine – Deglazes the pan, lifting all those delicious browned bits for extra depth.

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices – Forms the base of the sauce, giving it a rich, hearty texture.

1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes – Provides a subtle heat that takes the flavors up a notch.

Salt and black pepper, to taste – Enhances all the other ingredients.

For Finishing Touches:

1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped – Adds a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the richness of the dish.

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish) – A nutty, salty touch that makes the flavors pop.

---

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Italian Drunken Noodles

1. Cook the Egg Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente.

Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

2. Brown the Italian Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.

Once browned (about 5-7 minutes), transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving the drippings in the pan.

3. Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same pan, add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.

Stir in the garlic, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until fragrant.

Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.

4. Build the Sauce

Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

Stir in the diced tomatoes with juices, followed by the crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.

Return the cooked sausage to the pan and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes.

5. Combine the Noodles and Sauce

Add the drained egg noodles to the pan, tossing gently to coat.

If needed, stir in some reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Remove from heat and fold in fresh basil for a burst of flavor.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Plate the Italian Drunken Noodles hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pair with a glass of dry white wine and a slice of crusty garlic bread for the ultimate experience!

---

Why This Recipe Is Loved

✔️ Perfectly balanced flavors – The sausage’s savoriness, the tomato’s acidity, and the basil’s freshness create an unbeatable combo.

✔️ Easy to customize – Use mild or spicy sausage, swap in different veggies, or adjust the spice level to your taste.

✔️ One-pan magic – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor payoff.

✔️ Comfort food meets gourmet – Feels like a restaurant-quality meal but is simple enough for weeknights.

---

Pro Tips for Making the Best Italian Drunken Noodles

✅ Use high-quality Italian sausage – This is the backbone of the dish, so choose one with robust seasoning.

✅ Don’t overcook the noodles – Since they’ll absorb the sauce, keeping them al dente ensures the perfect bite.

✅ Deglaze properly – Scraping the pan when adding wine captures all those delicious browned bits.

✅ Add the basil at the end – Cooking basil too long dulls its fresh, bright flavor.

✅ For extra richness, finish with butter – Stir in a tablespoon of butter before serving for a luxurious touch.

---

Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal

Pair your Italian Drunken Noodles with:

✔️ Garlic bread or focaccia – The perfect way to soak up the flavorful sauce.

✔️ A crisp green salad – A fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta.

✔️ A glass of Pinot Grigio or Chianti – Enhances the dish’s depth with complementary notes.

---

Final Thoughts: Why You Need to Make This Tonight

Italian Drunken Noodles are the ultimate comfort food—bold, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests, this dish delivers every time. With its perfect blend of Italian and Thai influences, it’s no wonder why so many people can’t get enough!

Ready to experience t

he magic? Make this tonight and enjoy every flavorful bite!

Want more incredible recipes? Subscribe to our newsletter for more must-try dishes!