italian drunken noodles

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the minced garlic to the cleared area.
2. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, oregano, and basil to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

1. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir it into the sauce.
2. Add the cooked noodles to the pan, tossing gently to coat them in the sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
3. Stir in the fresh basil leaves and cook for another 2 minutes to warm everything through.

Step 6: Serve

1. Plate the Italian Drunken Noodles and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• For extra flavor, use a combination of sweet and hot Italian sausages.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with plant-based protein or additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
• Wide egg noodles work best for this recipe, but you can experiment with other pasta types like fettuccine or tagliatelle.
• Fresh basil is key to enhancing the dish’s flavor; avoid substituting with dried basil if possible.

This dish brings together the best of Italian and Asian-inspired cooking techniques for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is unique. Italian Drunken Noodles is a perfect choice for anyone looking to spice up their dinner repertoire with something bold, flavorful, and undeniably comforting.