If you love pasta dinners that are hearty, spicy, and full of personality, then Italian Drunken Noodles are about to become your new favorite comfort meal.
Inspired by the famous Thai “Drunken Noodles,” this Italian twist combines tender noodles, spicy Italian sausage, bell peppers, and a rich tomato-wine sauce. It’s a rustic, cozy dish that tastes like it came straight out of an old Italian kitchen — with just the right kick!
🍷 Why “Drunken” Noodles?
The “drunken” in the name comes from the splash of wine used to deglaze the pan — it deepens the flavor and gives the sauce that irresistible richness. It’s not about alcohol content; it’s about that bold, savory depth that makes every bite unforgettable.
🍅 Ingredients You’ll Need
• 12 oz wide egg noodles or pappardelle pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup dry red wine
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional but delicious!)
👩🍳 How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, add onions and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release all those flavorful bits. Let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Return the sausage to the pan and simmer for 10–12 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked noodles to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Serve hot, topped with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Italian Drunken Noodles pair beautifully with:
• Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread
• A fresh Caesar salad
• Or a simple side of roasted vegetables
And of course… a glass of red wine to complete the experience 🍷
💭 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Full of bold, savory flavors
✔️ Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy date nights
✔️ One-pan simplicity with restaurant-quality taste
✔️ A fun Italian twist on a classic Asian favorite
🕰️ Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave — add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Italian Drunken Noodles are the perfect mix of comfort, spice, and heart. It’s a dish that feels fancy but comes together easily — a true modern classic with old-world charm. One bite and you’ll understand why this recipe has become a family favorite for so many!
