Italian Drunken Noodles bring together the robust flavors of Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a white wine tomato sauce, all tossed with hearty egg noodles. This vibrant dish is a perfect marriage of bold spices and comforting pasta, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. The wine-infused sauce elevates the flavors, creating a rich and satisfying meal that feels like a restaurant-quality indulgence right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Burst of Flavors: The combination of Italian sausage, white wine, and herbs delivers a rich and aromatic experience.
• Vibrant Colors: The tri-color bell peppers not only add sweetness but also create a visually stunning dish.
• Simple yet Elegant: Easy enough for a quick meal, yet impressive for entertaining guests.
Ingredients
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground pepper, to taste
• ½ cup red bell pepper, sliced
• ½ cup yellow bell pepper, sliced
• ½ cup orange bell pepper, sliced
• ¼ cup onion, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ cup white wine
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 12 ounces egg noodles
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
1. Heat ½ tablespoon olive oil in a 4-quart Dutch oven or large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
1. In the same pot, heat the remaining ½ tablespoon olive oil.
2. Add the sliced onion, red, yellow, and orange bell peppers. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened and fragrant.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
1. Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to incorporate them into the sauce.
2. Let the wine simmer and reduce until almost fully evaporated.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
1. Add the undrained diced tomatoes to the pot, followed by the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground pepper.
2. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
1. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
2. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Keep the sauce warm while preparing the noodles.
Step 6: Cook the Noodles
1. Cook the egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly.
Step 7: Assemble the Dish
1. Add the cooked noodles to the pot with the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
1. Divide the Italian Drunken Noodles among serving plates and garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
• Deglaze with Care: Ensure the wine reduces fully to avoid an overly tangy sauce.
• Noodle Alternatives: Swap egg noodles for fettuccine or linguine if preferred.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a creamy variation.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a slice of crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. For a festive touch, serve with a glass of the same white wine used in the sauce.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
This Italian Drunken Noodles recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Enjoy the perfect harmony of pasta, sausage, and a rich tomato sauce infused with white wine! 🍷🍝
