Italian Drunken Noodles

 How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles: A Savory and Spicy Recipe for Any Occasion

Introduction

Italian Drunken Noodles are a delicious fusion dish that combines the bold flavors of Italian cuisine with the spicy and aromatic notes of a classic drunken noodle stir-fry. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves hearty pasta meals with a bit of a kick! Loaded with savory Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, flavorful sauce, these noodles are sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow this step-by-step guide to make this delightful dish that is perfect for lunch, dinner, or a special gathering.

Ingredients Needed for Italian Drunken Noodles

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients:

For the Noodles:

• 12 oz of wide pasta (pappardelle or fettuccine): These noodles provide the perfect texture for soaking up the rich sauce.
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil: Used for sautéing the ingredients.

For the Sauce:

• 1 lb of Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference): Adds depth and a hearty flavor to the dish.
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced: Provides a sweet and aromatic base.
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds color and sweetness.
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced: Balances the flavors with a slight bitterness.
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced: Enhances the sauce with its aromatic essence.
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds a tangy sweetness.
• ½ cup of dry white wine: Infuses a rich, aromatic depth to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon of tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a spicy kick.
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings out the Italian flavors.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Balances the seasoning.
• ½ cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped: Adds freshness and color to the dish.
• Parmesan cheese, grated (optional): To sprinkle on top for added richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Italian Drunken Noodles

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

1. Cook the Pasta:

Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Save a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later if needed.

2. Brown the Sausage:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the Italian sausage. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until it is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, leaving some of the rendered fat in the skillet.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté them over medium heat until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Deglaze with White Wine:

Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. This step is crucial as it adds a deep, rich flavor to the sauce. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol while keeping the aroma.

5. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings:

Add the halved cherry tomatoes, tomato paste, crushed red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down and the sauce thickens.

6. Combine the Sausage and Noodles:

Return the browned sausage to the skillet and mix well with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are well coated in the rich, savory sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

7. Finish with Fresh Basil:

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the freshly chopped basil leaves. This step adds a burst of freshness and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

8. Serve and Garnish:

Serve the Italian Drunken Noodles hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness. Pair it with a crusty loaf of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Best Italian Drunken Noodles