Indulge in the rich and hearty flavors of Italian Drunken Noodles, a unique fusion dish that blends Italian pasta with a zesty, wine-infused sauce. This dish combines tender egg noodles, juicy Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and a generous splash of red wine for a bold, savory experience. The layers of garlic, fresh herbs, and tangy tomatoes create an irresistible sauce that clings to every noodle. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a comforting meal, this recipe brings together the best of Italian comfort food with a delightful twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (Chianti or similar)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the egg noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onions and bell peppers until they soften and become slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Deglaze with wine: Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes until reduced by half.
- Add tomatoes and seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet, stirring to combine with the sauce. Gently fold in the cooked egg noodles, making sure they are fully coated in the sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Serve the Italian Drunken Noodles hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy this flavorful dish with a glass of wine for the ultimate comfort meal!