Italian Drunken Noodles are a delicious and hearty pasta dish featuring savory ground Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and tender egg noodles all simmered in a rich tomato and white wine sauce. This comforting meal is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners. The blend of herbs and freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a burst of Italian flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 16 ounces egg noodles, cooked al dente
- 2 medium green bell peppers, cleaned and diced
- 28 ounces diced tomatoes (canned, with juice)
- 3 teaspoons garlic, freshly minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ cup white cooking wine
- Parmesan cheese, grated (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Egg Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving a small amount of fat in the skillet.
- Add the diced green bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the freshly minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Create the Sauce:
- Pour the white cooking wine into the skillet, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, and dried basil to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine it with the sauce.
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the noodles are heated through and well combined with the sauce.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve the Italian Drunken Noodles hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as red bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use cooking wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
- Cheese Variations: Try topping the dish with shredded mozzarella or pecorino Romano for a different cheesy flavor.
- Herb Substitutions: Fresh herbs like basil and oregano can be used instead of dried for a fresher taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can substitute the egg noodles with other types of pasta such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: You can prepare the sauce and cook the noodles ahead of time. Store them separately and combine just before serving. This helps maintain the texture of the noodles.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage? A: Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to Italian sausage. You may need to add extra seasoning to compensate for the difference in flavor.
Q: Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the white cooking wine? A: Yes, you can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or a mixture of water with a tablespoon of lemon juice as a non-alcoholic substitute.
Italian Drunken Noodles are a delightful and satisfying meal that combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and a savory tomato and wine sauce. This dish is easy to make and versatile, allowing for various substitutions and additions to suit your taste. Whether for a family dinner or a casual get-together, these noodles are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the comforting and rich flavors of this Italian-inspired dish!
