Italian Drunken Noodles: A Flavor-Packed Fusion You’ll Make Again and Again
If you love bold flavors and hearty pasta dishes, Italian Drunken Noodles will quickly become one of your favorites. This fusion recipe brings together the comforting richness of Italian cuisine and the vibrant, spicy notes inspired by Thai drunken noodles. The result? A colorful, aromatic pasta dish loaded with vegetables, herbs, and the irresistible depth of Italian sausage. It’s quick enough for weeknights but exciting enough to impress guests.
What Are Italian Drunken Noodles?
Despite the name, this dish doesn’t require any alcohol—it’s called “drunken” because of its intense, layered flavors and the carefree, rustic style of cooking. Think wide noodles tossed in a garlic-herb tomato sauce with peppers, basil, sausage, and a touch of heat. It’s comfort food with character.
Ingredients
12 oz wide egg noodles or pappardelle
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), casings removed
1 medium onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, chopped
Fresh Parmesan, for serving
Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Remove and set aside, leaving a little oil in the pan.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add sliced onion and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook another minute.
4. Build the Sauce
Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper. Return the sausage to the pan and let everything simmer for 8–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
5. Combine
Add the cooked noodles directly into the sauce and toss until well coated. Simmer for 2–3 minutes more.
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