Italian Drunken Noodles is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the richness of Italian sausage, the sweetness of bell peppers, and the depth of white wine and tomatoes. This savory pasta dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
INGREDIENTS
- Egg noodles: 12 oz, cooked according to your liking
- Italian sausage: 1 lb ground, brings savory richness to the dish
- Bell peppers: 2, chopped, for sweetness and texture
- Minced garlic: 3 tsp, adds a punch of flavor
- Italian seasoning: 1 tsp, for an herbaceous blend of flavors
- White cooking wine: ½ cup, for depth and richness
- Diced tomatoes: 28 oz can (with juice), brings a tangy base to the sauce
- Dried basil: 1 tbsp, for a touch of earthiness
- Salt and pepper: to taste, for seasoning
- Parmesan cheese: for garnish, adds a cheesy finish
- Fresh chopped parsley: for garnish, adds a fresh touch
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large saucepan or skillet with deep sides, cook the ground Italian sausage and chopped bell peppers over medium-high heat. Cook until the sausage is browned and the peppers begin to soften.
- Step 2:
- Lower the heat to medium, then stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Pour in the white cooking wine and sauté until the liquid reduces by half.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Step 5:
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and gently toss until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Step 6:
- Top the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Helpful Notes
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and Italian seasoning.
- You can substitute the white cooking wine with chicken broth for a lighter sauce.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis recommends using a combination of sweet and hot Italian sausage for a more complex flavor profile in dishes like this one.