Name: Italian Drunken Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 ounces egg noodles; 1 pound Italian sausage; 2 bell peppers, sliced; 1 large onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup red or white wine; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and black pepper to taste

Italian Drunken Noodles are a bold, savory, and aromatic pasta dish inspired by the flavors of classic Thai drunken noodles but given an Italian twist. With wide egg noodles tossed in a garlicky tomato and wine sauce, spiced with Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and fresh herbs, this dish is hearty enough for a cozy dinner yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party.

The magic comes from cooking with wine—the sauce takes on a rich, complex depth of flavor that clings to every noodle. It’s comfort food with a touch of sophistication. Serve it with crusty bread and a glass of the same wine you used in the sauce, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy meal right at home.

What Makes Them “Drunken”?

The term “drunken” refers to the generous splash of wine used to deglaze the pan and create a rich, velvety sauce. Unlike Thai versions, which use soy and oyster sauces, this Italian-inspired version leans on red or white wine, olive oil, and tomatoes for depth and brightness.

Ingredients for Italian Drunken Noodles

Egg Noodles
Wide and tender, they soak up all the flavors of the sauce.

Italian Sausage
Provides a spicy, savory backbone to the dish.

Bell Peppers
Add sweetness, color, and texture.

Onions & Garlic
Build layers of flavor in the sauce.

Crushed Tomatoes
Form the rich, tangy base of the sauce.

Red or White Wine
Adds depth and richness—choose a wine you’d also enjoy drinking.

Olive Oil
For sautéing and enhancing the Mediterranean flair.

Fresh Basil & Parsley
Bright herbs that finish the dish with freshness.

Red Pepper Flakes
Optional, but perfect for a gentle heat.

Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkled on top for a salty, creamy finish.

How To Make Italian Drunken Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook until softened and slightly caramelized, then add garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in red or white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let the wine reduce slightly for a richer flavor.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Add crushed tomatoes and return the sausage to the pan. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Toss with Noodles

Add the cooked egg noodles into the skillet and toss until fully coated in the sauce. Sprinkle in fresh basil and parsley for brightness.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and extra herbs if desired. Pair with crusty bread and a glass of wine for the ultimate meal.

How to Serve and Store Italian Drunken Noodles

Serve Italian Drunken Noodles hot, straight from the skillet, for the best texture and flavor. The noodles are hearty enough to stand alone as the main dish, but they shine even brighter when paired with a few simple sides. Garnish generously with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an elegant presentation.

To store, let leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. If you want to freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

What to Serve With Italian Drunken Noodles?

Garlic Bread

Perfect for mopping up the rich tomato-wine sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Try zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus for a Mediterranean touch.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes add lightness and freshness.

Antipasto Platter

Olives, cured meats, and marinated artichokes are a great starter.

Red Wine

Serve with the same wine you used in the sauce for a perfect pairing.

Tiramisu

End the meal with a classic Italian dessert for a sweet finish.

Want More Comforting Pasta Recipes?

If you enjoyed these Italian Drunken Noodles, here are more delicious pasta dishes and Italian-inspired favorites you’ll love:

• Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta — creamy, smoky, and loaded with flavor.
• Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries — a hearty twist on comfort food perfect for sharing.
• Nutella French Toast Casserole — not pasta, but a sweet Italian-inspired breakfast bake.
• Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole — a savory classic that pairs well with pasta nights.
• Taco Ranch Bites — bite-sized snacks that complement a pasta dinner spread.

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Did you go with red wine or white wine in your sauce? Add extra spice with red pepper flakes? Share your twist in the comments—we’d love to hear how you made it your own!

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