ITALIAN DRUNKEN NOODLES

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pappardelle or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.

1. Cook the Sausage:

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onion and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

1. Deglaze the Pan:

• Pour in the white wine, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the wine reduces by half.

1. Add the Tomatoes and Broth:

• Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and the cooked sausage. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

1. Combine with Pasta:

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.

1. Finish and Serve:

• Stir in the fresh basil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve the Italian Drunken Noodles immediately, with extra Parmesan and basil on the side if desired.

Tips for Perfect Italian Drunken Noodles

• Choose the Right Wine: A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay adds a rich flavor without overpowering the dish. Avoid sweet wines as they can alter the taste.
• Adjust the Heat Level: If you enjoy a bit of spice, use hot Italian sausage or increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that complements the other ingredients. For extra depth, add a little fresh oregano or parsley.

Why You’ll Love Italian Drunken Noodles

Italian Drunken Noodles are perfect for those who love hearty pasta dishes with robust flavors. The combination of sausage, peppers, onions, and a savory wine-infused sauce makes for a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s also a versatile dish that you can customize with different vegetables, meats, or even a different type of pasta.

Variations and Add-Ins

While the classic Italian Drunken Noodles recipe is delicious as-is, you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences:

• Add More Vegetables: Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions to this dish.
• Switch Up the Protein: Try using chicken, shrimp, or even plant-based sausage for a different take on the recipe.
• Experiment with Different Noodles: Pappardelle and fettuccine are ideal for their wide shape, but you could use penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free noodles if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Drunken Noodles are filling enough to serve on their own, but you can also pair them with other dishes for a complete meal:

• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a touch of earthy flavor.

Conclusion

Italian Drunken Noodles offer a delightful fusion of Italian comfort food and gourmet flavors, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. With a perfect balance of savory sausage, fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a rich wine sauce, this pasta dish will quickly become a favorite in your household. It’s a recipe that’s easy to make but tastes like it took hours, and it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Give this flavorful pasta dish a try, and let it become your new go-to for a comforting yet sophisticated meal. Enjoy cooking, and buon appetito!