1. Introduction
Italian Drunken Noodles is a delightful fusion of Italian and Thai cuisine, combining the robust flavors of Italian sausage and hearty pasta with the vibrant, aromatic elements often found in Thai cooking. This dish is characterized by wide egg noodles, savory sausage, and a medley of colorful vegetables, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with white wine. The result is a bold, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion, bringing together the best of both worlds.
2. Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Italian Drunken Noodles:
- 12 ounces of wide egg noodles
- 1 pound of Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of dry white wine
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1/4 cup of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
3. Preparing the Noodles
Begin by cooking the wide egg noodles according to the package instructions. Cook them until al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside. Toss them lightly with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the rest of the dish.
4. Cooking the Sausage
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sauté the sausage until it’s browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Once fully cooked, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside, leaving any rendered fat in the skillet for added flavor.
5. Sautéing the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil if necessary, then add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat until they are soft and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The onions should be translucent, and the peppers tender, with a slight char for added flavor.
6. Adding the Garlic
Once the vegetables are softened, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The garlic should infuse the oil and vegetables with a rich, aromatic flavor that will enhance the entire dish.
7. Deglazing with White Wine
Pour the white wine into the skillet, using it to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, as these add tremendous flavor to the sauce. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes. This step infuses the dish with a subtle acidity and depth of flavor that complements the richness of the sausage and vegetables.
8. Incorporating the Tomatoes and Broth
Add the diced tomatoes with their juice and the chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine, then return the cooked sausage to the pan. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
9. Combining the Noodles and Sauce
Once the sauce has simmered and thickened, add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet. Toss the noodles in the sauce until they are fully coated and heated through. The noodles should absorb some of the sauce, enhancing their flavor. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash more chicken broth or pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
10. Garnishing and Serving
Before serving, garnish the Italian Drunken Noodles with freshly chopped basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The basil adds a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dish, while the Parmesan provides a salty, umami-rich finish. Serve the noodles hot, straight from the skillet, for the best flavor and texture.
11. Serving Suggestions
Italian Drunken Noodles are a complete meal on their own, but they pair beautifully with a simple green salad or a side of garlic bread. For a more substantial meal, you can also serve them alongside roasted vegetables or a Caprese salad. A glass of the same white wine used in the recipe is the perfect accompaniment to this flavorful dish.
12. Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the noodles gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if necessary. Be careful not to overcook, as the noodles can become too soft.
13. Making Ahead
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply cook the noodles, reheat the sauce, and combine them just before serving. This make-ahead option is great for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests and want to minimize last-minute cooking.
14. Recipe Variations
Italian Drunken Noodles are highly customizable. You can substitute the Italian sausage with ground beef, turkey, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version. Add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutritional content. For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
15. Conclusion
Italian Drunken Noodles are a delicious, hearty dish that combines the best of Italian and Thai-inspired flavors. The combination of savory sausage, tender noodles, and vibrant vegetables all simmered in a white wine-tomato sauce is irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the bold flavors and comforting warmth in every bite!
