Italian Drunken Noodles are a flavorful twist on the classic Thai dish, combining wide pappardelle pasta with Italian-inspired ingredients. Spicy sausage, vibrant bell peppers, onions, fresh herbs, and a red wine-kissed tomato sauce come together to create a quick and satisfying 30-minute meal. This dish offers a perfect balance of savory, herby, and slightly tangy flavors.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 12 ounces pappardelle or wide egg noodles
• 1 pound spicy Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish:

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Olive oil (for drizzling)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pappardelle according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Sausage:

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Brown the sausage until fully cooked, about 7–8 minutes. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.

3. Cook the Vegetables:

• Add sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

4. Make the Sauce:

• Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the wine reduce for 2–3 minutes.
• Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Combine and Serve:

• Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in fresh basil and parsley.
• Drizzle with olive oil before serving for added richness.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 22 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 9 g
• Sodium: 980 mg
• Vitamin A: 1450 IU
• Vitamin C: 75 mg
• Calcium: 80 mg
• Iron: 4 mg

What Makes Italian Drunken Noodles Unique?

Italian Drunken Noodles stand out as a creative twist on a classic concept. While traditional Thai drunken noodles feature a soy-based sauce and rice noodles, this Italian variation swaps in pappardelle pasta and incorporates ingredients like red wine, crushed tomatoes, and fresh Italian herbs. The addition of spicy Italian sausage further enhances the dish, giving it a rich and savory depth that complements the sweet peppers and aromatic garlic.

A Symphony of Ingredients

• Pappardelle Pasta:
  The wide, ribbon-like shape of pappardelle is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce, ensuring every bite is coated with deliciousness. Its hearty texture holds up well against the robust sauce and chunky ingredients.
• Spicy Italian Sausage:
  This protein adds a punch of flavor, infusing the dish with spice and richness. You can adjust the heat by choosing mild, medium, or hot sausage based on your preference.
• Bell Peppers and Onions:
  The vibrant colors and sweet, mellow flavors of red and yellow bell peppers complement the savory sausage and add a delightful crunch to the dish. Onions provide an additional layer of sweetness and aroma.
• Red Wine:
  A splash of red wine enhances the sauce, adding depth and a slightly tangy undertone. It also helps deglaze the pan, incorporating all the flavorful bits left behind by the sausage and vegetables.
• Crushed Tomatoes:
  The base of the sauce, crushed tomatoes, offers a rich and slightly tangy flavor that ties all the elements together. The tomatoes simmer with the wine and spices, creating a sauce that’s both bold and comforting.
• Fresh Herbs:
  Basil and parsley are the finishing touches that brighten the dish, adding a fresh, fragrant note that elevates its overall flavor profile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy:
   Despite its gourmet appearance, Italian Drunken Noodles come together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
2. Bursting with Flavor:
   The combination of spicy sausage, sweet peppers, and a red wine-tomato sauce ensures every bite is packed with bold and satisfying flavors.
3. Versatile and Customizable:
   Swap out pappardelle for another pasta shape, use mild sausage for a less spicy dish, or add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a personalized touch.
4. Visually Stunning:
   The vibrant red, yellow, and green hues from the peppers and herbs make this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

Cooking Tips for Success

1. Use Quality Ingredients:
   Opt for fresh, high-quality sausage, pasta, and tomatoes. The quality of these key ingredients will greatly impact the flavor of the dish.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta:
   Cook the pappardelle al dente to ensure it holds its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
3. Deglaze the Pan Properly:
   When adding the red wine, scrape the bottom of the skillet to incorporate all the flavorful browned bits from the sausage and vegetables. This step enhances the depth of the sauce.
4. Balance the Flavors:
   Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of sugar can be added if the tomatoes are too acidic, and an extra splash of wine can deepen the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Drunken Noodles are a complete meal on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a few simple accompaniments:

• Crusty Bread:
  Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Side Salad:
  A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the rich pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese:
  A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of creaminess and umami.
• Wine Pairing:
  Complement the flavors with a glass of the same red wine used in the sauce, such as a medium-bodied Chianti or Merlot.

Variations to Try

1. Vegetarian Version:
   Substitute the sausage with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly option.
2. Gluten-Free Option:
   Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
3. Extra Vegetables:
   Incorporate zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrients and color.
4. Cheesy Twist:
   Stir in a dollop of ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a creamy variation.

Conclusion

Italian Drunken Noodles are a flavorful fusion of classic Italian and Thai cuisines, offering a hearty yet sophisticated meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and beautiful presentation.

With tender pappardelle pasta, savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a rich red wine-tomato sauce, this recipe delivers a comforting and satisfying experience. Its quick preparation time and customizable ingredients make it a versatile favorite that you’ll return to again and again. Serve it with crusty bread and a glass of wine for a truly memorable meal!