How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles: A Taste of Italy

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the wine and gently scrape the bottom of the pan with a spatula to lift any browned bits (these add tons of flavor). Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the sauce to reduce slightly.

Note: Red wine gives the dish a deeper, richer flavor, while white wine keeps it lighter and fruitier—both work beautifully.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine everything. Return the cooked sausage to the pan, mixing it into the sauce.

Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked noodles to the sauce and toss everything together gently until the noodles are evenly coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top. Finish with a generous grating of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serve immediately while it’s hot, with a slice of garlic bread or a simple green salad on the side.

🍷 Optional Pairing: Wine Recommendation

Since this dish uses wine in the sauce, you can pair it with the same type:

• Red Wine Option: Chianti or Merlot – complements the savory sausage beautifully.
• White Wine Option: Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc – adds brightness to the tomato base.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Simple but elegant: It looks fancy, yet it’s easy enough for a weeknight meal.
• Full of flavor: The wine-tomato sauce is rich and balanced.
• Versatile: You can use ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian substitute.

🥖 Final Thoughts

Italian Drunken Noodles are the perfect example of how two culinary worlds can merge into something spectacular. With its silky noodles, spiced sausage, and rich wine-kissed sauce, it’s a dish that comforts and excites at the same time. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe brings a Taste of Italy right to your table—no passport required.

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