Italian Drunken Noodles: A Hearty, Wine-Infused Pasta Dish

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Introduction

Italian Drunken Noodles, or Pasta Ubriaca, is a rustic, flavorful dish that combines tender egg noodles with savory Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato-wine sauce. The name “drunken” comes from the generous splash of white wine that infuses the pasta with depth and complexity, making it a standout meal that is both comforting and sophisticated.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty yet quick to prepare, or for entertaining guests with a taste of Italian-inspired comfort food. The combination of juicy tomatoes, aromatic garlic and basil, and the slight heat from Italian sausage creates a balanced and satisfying flavor profile. Best of all, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy cooks who still want a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian flavors or simply looking for a new pasta dish to add to your rotation, Italian Drunken Noodles deliver bold taste with minimal effort.

The Recipe: Italian Drunken Noodles

Ingredients

  • 12 oz egg noodles (or pappardelle/fettuccine)
  • 1 lb ground Italian sausage (mild or hot, based on preference)
  • 2 bell peppers, any color, chopped
  • 3 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ cup dry white cooking wine (or substitute with chicken broth)
  • 28 oz can diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 1 Tbsp dried basil (or ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
  • Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles until al dente, about 1 minute less than the package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water for later use.

2. Brown the Sausage

  • In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, cook the ground Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-6 minutes until browned. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

  • In the same skillet, add the chopped bell peppers and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
  • Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Deglaze with Wine

  • Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2 minutes, reducing slightly.

5. Simmer the Sauce

  • Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and return the cooked sausage to the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  • Season with dried basil, salt, and black pepper to taste.

6. Combine and Finish

  • Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing well to coat them in the sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
  • Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Pasta Choice: While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute with pappardelle, fettuccine, or even penne for a different texture.
  • Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, replace it with chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
  • Extra Richness: For a creamier sauce, stir in a ¼ cup of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the end.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and use sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a meat-free version.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the heat by choosing mild or hot Italian sausage, or add red pepper flakes for extra kick.

Conclusion

Italian Drunken Noodles are a robust and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Italian comfort food to your table. The combination of savory sausage, sweet peppers, and a wine-infused tomato sauce creates a meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether served as a quick family dinner or presented at a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its rich taste and rustic appeal.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe proves that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. The next time you’re craving a hearty pasta dish with bold flavors, give Italian Drunken Noodles a try—you won’t be disappointed.

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