Introduction

Italian Drunken Noodles are a delicious fusion of Italian and Thai cuisine. This hearty pasta dish combines wide egg noodles with spicy Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes simmered in a garlicky, wine-infused sauce. The “drunken” part of the name comes from the splash of red wine used to enhance the flavor of the sauce, giving it a rich and bold depth. It’s a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner that feels restaurant-worthy!

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) wide egg noodles or pappardelle pasta
• 1 lb (450 g) spicy or sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup (120 ml) dry red wine (such as Chianti or Merlot)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook egg noodles or pappardelle according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, add sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits. Let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Make the Sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked sausage back to the pan. Simmer for 8–10 minutes to let flavors blend.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Finish and Serve: Stir in fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Description

Italian Drunken Noodles are a comforting, flavor-packed dish that beautifully marries Italian and Thai inspirations. The red wine adds a rich undertone that balances the acidity of the tomatoes, while the sausage brings savory spice. Every bite is hearty, colorful, and deeply satisfying—perfect for a cozy night in or an impressive dinner with guests.