italian drunken noodles

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

1. In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil.
2. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
3. Brown the sausage until fully cooked and slightly crispy on the edges (about 7–8 minutes).
4. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside, leaving the drippings.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed.
2. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers.
3. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until they begin to soften and caramelize slightly.
4. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

1. Pour in the white wine and use your spatula to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
2. Let the wine simmer for 2–3 minutes until reduced by half.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Sausage Back

1. Add the halved cherry tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) and stir well.
2. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and release juices.
3. Return the cooked sausage to the pan and mix everything thoroughly.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

1. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet.
2. Gently toss everything together over low heat to coat the noodles with the sauce.
3. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil just before serving.
3. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Italian Drunken Noodles hot, paired with:

• A crisp green salad
• Garlic bread or focaccia
• A glass of the same wine used in cooking

Tips for Success:

• Sausage choices: You can use sweet Italian sausage, spicy sausage, or even chicken sausage based on your taste.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute the sausage with mushrooms or a plant-based Italian sausage.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prep the vegetables and even cook the sausage ahead of time for a faster weeknight dinner.

Why It Works:

This dish is a perfect marriage of rich Italian flavors and the comfort of a stir-fry pasta. The wine adds depth and acidity that cuts through the richness of the sausage and balances the sweetness of the bell peppers and onions. The fresh herbs bring brightness, making every bite layered and satisfying.

Conclusion:

Italian Drunken Noodles is more than just a fun twist on a classic name—it’s a delicious, bold, and family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for guests or indulging in a cozy night in, this flavorful dish brings the spirit of Italy with a hint of playful fusion flair.

Let your tastebuds take a little trip to Tuscany—wine included!