Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe Blog

 

A Comfort Food Fusion You’ll Fall in Love With

If you’re looking for a comfort food dish that’s bold, hearty, and loaded with flavor, Italian Drunken Noodles should be at the top of your list. This recipe is a mouthwatering fusion of Italian herbs, spicy Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and tender pasta—all simmered together in a silky tomato-wine sauce. The “drunken” part of the name comes from the splash of red wine in the sauce, which elevates the dish with depth and richness you simply can’t get from broth alone.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s rustic, filling, and irresistible—every forkful delivers the perfect balance of savory, slightly spicy, and aromatic flavors.

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Ingredients and Their Purpose

To create the best Italian Drunken Noodles, you’ll need:

12 oz wide egg noodles (or pappardelle) – Provides a rich, hearty base with enough bite to hold up to the sauce.

1 lb spicy Italian sausage – Adds protein and bold flavor; choose mild if you prefer less heat.

2 tbsp olive oil – Enhances the richness and helps sauté the vegetables.

1 large onion, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness and depth to balance the spice.

3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with a rich, aromatic kick.

1 red bell pepper + 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced – Brings color, natural sweetness, and a slight crunch.

1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme that ties the flavors together.

¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – Boosts the heat for spice lovers.

1 cup red wine (dry, like Cabernet or Merlot) – The star ingredient, creating the “drunken” flavor with richness and depth.

1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes – Forms the base of the sauce with natural acidity.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Balances and enhances the flavors.

¼ cup fresh basil, chopped – Adds freshness and a vibrant finishing touch.

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving – Brings a nutty, creamy finish to each bite.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the 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.

2. Brown the sausage

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned. Remove sausage from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté the vegetables

In the same skillet, add onions and peppers. Cook until softened, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Deglaze with wine

Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow it to simmer for 2–3 minutes, reducing slightly.

5. Build the sauce

Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 10–12 minutes to thicken.

6. Combine everything

Return the sausage to the skillet, then add the cooked egg noodles. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.

7. Finish with freshness

Stir in fresh basil right before serving. Top with Parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch.

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Why This Recipe Is Loved

Flavor-packed: The red wine deepens the sauce, making it taste restaurant-worthy.

One-pan friendly: Aside from boiling the pasta, everything comes together in a single skillet.

Customizable: Use chicken sausage for a lighter option, or add spinach for extra greens.

Comforting yet elegant: A dish you can whip up on a busy weeknight or serve to impress at a dinner party.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Italian Drunken Noodles

Choose a good wine – Always cook with a wine you’d enjoy drinking. A bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon works best.

Don’t overcook the noodles – Keeping them al dente ensures they soak up the sauce without getting mushy.

Balance the flavors – Taste the sauce as it simmers. Add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if needed to balance acidity.

Use fresh basil at the end – Adding it earlier will dull its flavor; stirring it in at the last moment keeps it vibrant.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad and a loaf of garlic bread for a complete meal.

Serve with a glass of the same red wine used in the sauce for perfect pairing.

For extra indulgence, add a side of roasted vegetables or a simple Caprese salad.

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Conclusion

Italian Drunken Noodles is a recipe that checks every box: hearty, flavorful, easy to make, and deeply satisfying. With the richness of Italian sausage, the sweetness of bell peppers, and the bold kick of red wine, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite for so many.

Make it once, and it’s guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation—or even your

 special occasion menu. The best part? It’s proof that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create an unforgettable meal.