Italian Drunken Noodles is a flavorful, hearty dish that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the vibrant colors of bell peppers and the freshness of basil, all brought together with a splash of white wine. This dish offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Cook the Noodles: Cook pappardelle or egg noodles according to package directions until al dente, then drain and keep warm.
Heat the Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Crumble the Sausage: Add sausage to the pan, breaking it into chunks as it cooks until browned on all sides, then remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Cook the Onions: Add sliced onions to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown and caramelized.
Season the Onions: Sprinkle 1 ½ teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon of cracked black pepper over the onions, stirring to combine.
Add Bell Peppers: Add sliced red, yellow, and orange bell peppers to the pan, cooking for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
Add Garlic: Press garlic into the pan, stir, and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Wine: Pour white wine into the pan, stirring to deglaze and cook for 2 minutes to let the alcohol evaporate slightly.
Add Tomatoes and Sausage: Pour diced tomatoes with juice into the pan, stir, then return the browned sausage to the pan and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Finish the Sauce: Drizzle in 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, then stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley and half of the julienned basil.
Combine with Noodles: Gently toss the cooked noodles in the sauce, using tongs to coat evenly.
Taste and Adjust: Check seasoning and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed.
Serve: Serve the Italian Drunken Noodles in individual dishes, garnishing with the remaining julienned basil leaves, Parmesan shavings, and an olive oil drizzle if desired.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and replace it with mushrooms or another plant-based protein. Adjust the seasoning and wine to your taste preference.