ITALIAN DRUNKEN NOODLES

Italian Drunken Noodles is a hearty and colorful pasta recipe that brings together savory Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and bold seasonings for a dinner that satisfies every craving. Inspired by classic Italian flavors with a nod to the punchy spice and fun of Thai drunken noodles, this dish is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and impressive meal. The combination of sweet bell peppers, aromatic garlic, and spicy red pepper flakes makes each bite unforgettable.

ingredients

To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need simple ingredients that come together beautifully:
1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
1 lb Italian sausage
1 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ cup red bell pepper, sliced
½ cup yellow bell pepper, sliced
½ cup orange bell pepper, sliced
¼ cup onion, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
(Plus your favorite pasta like fettuccine or pappardelle and a splash of dry white wine if desired)

how to make italian drunken noodles

• Heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
• Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside. Drain excess fat if needed.
• In the same skillet, add the remaining ½ tablespoon of olive oil.
• Add sliced red, yellow, and orange bell peppers along with the onions. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute.
• (Optional) Deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
• Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix everything together.
• Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain.
• Add the drained pasta to the sausage and pepper mixture. Toss until the noodles are evenly coated and everything is well combined.

serving and storage tips

• Serve immediately: Italian Drunken Noodles are best served hot, right after tossing the pasta with the sausage and pepper mixture. The flavors are bold and fresh, making it perfect for dinner straight from the skillet.
• Pair it well: Complement this dish with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of dry white wine. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or fresh basil on top adds a perfect finishing touch.
• Store leftovers: Let any leftovers cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat properly: To reheat, place leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until warmed through.
• Freezing tips: Italian Drunken Noodles can also be frozen. Portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Avoid overcooking when reheating: Overheating can cause the noodles to become mushy, so heat gently and stir often.

variations

• white wine boost
  Deglazing the skillet with a splash of dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) adds a layer of acidity and depth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes after adding the wine to allow the alcohol to cook off, enhancing the sauce’s flavor without overpowering it.
• lighten it with ground turkey or chicken
  Swap out the Italian sausage for lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish. You’ll still get a satisfying texture and flavor, especially if you season the meat with a little fennel seed and garlic to mimic sausage.
• make it vegetarian
  Replace the sausage with a plant-based meat substitute or bulk it up with mushrooms and zucchini. Sauté the veggies until golden to bring out their natural umami, and consider using a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for added richness.
• add creamy richness
  For a more indulgent take, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or 2 tablespoons of cream cheese at the end of cooking. This creates a velvety sauce that clings to every noodle, transforming the dish into a creamy pasta delight.
• load it with veggies
  Add mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even broccoli for a more veggie-forward dish. Cook them along with the bell peppers and onions until tender. This not only adds color and nutrients but also layers of texture.
• try different pasta shapes
  While pappardelle and fettuccine work wonderfully, you can also use penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Choose a shape that holds up well to the hearty sauce and sausage.
• spice it up
  Increase the red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños for a spicier kick. A dash of hot sauce or chili oil can also give the noodles a bold twist if you like heat.
• go gluten-free
  Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your sausage and seasonings are gluten-free too. The flavors remain just as delicious and satisfying.
• use sweet or hot sausage
  You can choose between sweet Italian sausage or hot Italian sausage depending on your spice preference. Hot sausage adds more kick, while sweet offers a milder, more herbaceous flavor.
• herb it up
  Add chopped fresh basil, parsley, or oregano just before serving for a pop of freshness and a more vibrant, herbaceous finish.

FAQs

1. What type of pasta is best for Italian Drunken Noodles?
Wide, flat noodles like pappardelle or fettuccine work best because they hold the sauce and sausage well.

2. Can I use pre-cooked or leftover sausage for this recipe?
Yes, simply slice or crumble pre-cooked sausage and add it to the sautéed vegetables to warm through.

3. How spicy is this dish?
It has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.

4. Is the white wine necessary?
No, the white wine is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor. You can skip it if you prefer.

5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives or sautéed mushrooms and other vegetables.

6. How long does it take to prepare Italian Drunken Noodles?
From start to finish, this recipe usually takes about 30 minutes.

7. What can I serve with Italian Drunken Noodles?
It pairs well with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.

8. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

9. Can I freeze Italian Drunken Noodles?
Yes, freeze in portioned containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.

10. Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.

Italian Drunken Noodles is the perfect fusion of comfort, spice, and bold Italian flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or looking for an easy yet flavorful weeknight meal, this dish delivers every time. With its flexible ingredients and fast prep time, it’s a recipe that will easily find a place in your regular dinner rotation.

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