Description

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)

Instructions

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.

Notes

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.