Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe

If you’re searching for a pasta dish that’s bold, colorful, and impossible to forget, Italian Drunken Noodles are about to become your new obsession. Juicy Italian sausage, bell peppers, and silky pappardelle get swirled in a garlicky tomato-wine sauce—this is weeknight comfort with a big personality and a hint of mischief!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Italian Drunken Noodles are all about simple, fresh ingredients coming together in perfect harmony—each addition plays a role in building irresistible flavor, texture, and color. Here’s what you’ll need (with a few tips to make every bite special):

• Pappardelle Noodles: Wide and silky, these noodles soak up every bit of saucy goodness—don’t skimp on the pasta quality.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps create that luscious, glossy finish in the final step.
• Spicy Italian Sausage: Bring on the heat! The sausage is the backbone of savory flavor and a satisfying bite.
• Large Onion: Caramelized onions add a subtle sweetness that balances out the boldness of the sausage and peppers.
• Salt, Italian Seasoning & Cracked Black Pepper: These classics bring out those herby, savory Italian flavors we all crave.
• Red, Yellow, & Orange Bell Peppers: The trio of peppers adds sweetness, pretty pops of color, and just the right amount of tender crunch.
• Fresh Garlic: Pressed or minced, it’s truly non-negotiable for that depth and aromatic punch.
• White Wine (like Chardonnay): Reduces to give a gentle acidity and elevate every flavor in the pan—don’t worry, the alcohol cooks off.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes (with juice): Juicy, bright, and chunky for a sauce that hugs the noodles.
• Flat-Leaf Parsley & Fresh Basil: Parsley adds freshness; basil is scattered in layers for pops of herby brightness.

Variations

The beauty of Italian Drunken Noodles is how customizable the recipe is—just a few swaps can make it perfect for your table, whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or using what’s in your fridge tonight.

• Swap the Sausage: Prefer it mild? Use sweet Italian sausage—or go meatless with a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
• Add Veggies: Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach all fit right in if you want extra color and nutrition.
• Try Red Wine: For a deeper, richer flavor, use a splash of red wine instead of white for a twist on the classic.
• Increase the Heat: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or choose a hotter sausage if you want that signature spicy kick to really shine.

How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Pappardelle

Start by boiling the pappardelle noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them extra well so they’re ready to soak up every drop of that gorgeous sauce later. Cover loosely to keep them warm while you cook up the rest.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat a good glug of olive oil over medium-high. Crumble in your spicy Italian sausage—try to keep the pieces chunky for texture. Let them brown on all sides (about 5 minutes), then transfer to a bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add your thinly sliced onion right into the sausage drippings—don’t wipe the pan, that’s pure flavor! Sauté until golden and caramelized, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, Italian seasoning, and cracked pepper as the onion cooks.

Step 4: Add the Peppers & Garlic

Toss in the colorful bell peppers and sauté for a couple of minutes until just slightly tender. The kitchen will start to smell incredible! Stir in the pressed garlic and cook just until fragrant; don’t let it brown.

Step 5: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in your white wine and let it simmer, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce almost completely—this is where all the “drunken” magic happens, infusing those veggies with bright, grown-up flavor.

Step 6: Make the Sauce & Finish

Pour in the diced tomatoes (including their juice), then return the browned sausage to the pan. Let the mixture bubble softly for 3–4 minutes to bring all the flavors together. Stir in a generous drizzle of olive oil, chopped parsley, and half the basil—this creates an irresistibly silky, fresh sauce.

Step 7: Toss the Noodles & Serve

Gently toss the cooked pappardelle directly into the sauce, using tongs to coat every strand. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Dish up big bowls, top with the remaining basil, and (if you like) a little shaved parmesan and an extra drizzle of olive oil—dive in while it’s piping hot!

How to Serve Italian Drunken Noodles

Garnishes

Finish your Italian Drunken Noodles with a scatter of fresh basil, a sprinkle of flat-leaf parsley, and (if you’re a cheese lover) a shower of shaved parmesan. An extra drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving adds a silky sheen and real depth.

Side Dishes

Serve this vibrant pasta with a side of crusty Italian bread—perfect for sopping up every last drop of sauce! A simple green salad with lemony vinaigrette balances the dish, or you could pair with roasted vegetables for extra color and nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dramatic table presentation, swirl the Italian Drunken Noodles high in shallow bowls and top with a little basil nest. You can also serve family-style from a big platter, letting those rainbow peppers and sausage pieces tempt everyone around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Italian Drunken Noodles in an airtight container in the fridge—they should be devoured within 3 days for the best flavor and texture. The flavors deepen as it sits, so leftovers are a big lunchtime win!

Freezing

This recipe actually freezes quite well—simply cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. If you know you’ll freeze, slightly undercook the noodles for the best texture after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or extra tomato juice, tossing frequently until it’s hot all the way through. You can also reheat single portions in the microwave, but the stovetop prevents the noodles from getting gummy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you find as much joy, comfort, and fun in this Italian Drunken Noodles recipe as I do every time I make it. Gather your favorites around the table, pour an extra splash of wine (for the chef, of course!), and prepare for happy forks and big smiles. You deserve a bowlful of bold, beautiful flavor—enjoy!

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