Italian Drunken Noodles
Try this Italian Drunken Noodles recipe.
Try this Italian Drunken Noodles recipe.
- olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 large onion quartered and sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup white wine (i used chardonnay)
- 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves julienned, divided use
- 8 ounces pappardelle noodles uncooked
- 4 cloves garlic pressed through garlic press
- 4 spicy italian sausage links casings removed
- 1 red bell pepper cored and thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper cored and thinly sliced
- 1 orange bell pepper cored and thinly sliced
- 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
- Carbohydrate 26.6087933328695 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.49262666623874 g
- Fiber 6.95373323386478 g
- Protein 4.83432000016378 g
- Saturated Fat 0.2675796665976 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Recipe (691g)
- Sodium 17.41929166654 mg
- Sugar 19.6550600990047 g
- Trans Fat 0.676988916663898 g
- Calories 125 calories
Step-by-step
- Place a large, heavy-bottom pan or braising pot over medium-high heat; add about 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and once the oil is hot, crumble the spicy Italian sausage into the pan in small chunks, allowing it to brown in the oil for a few moments on each side; once the crumbled sausage is browned, remove it from the pan/pot with a slotted spoon and place into a small bowl to hold for a moment.
- Next, add the sliced onion into the pan with the sausage drippings, and allow it to caramelize and become golden for roughly 5 minutes or so, stirring to keep it from burning (add a touch more olive oil, if necessary).
- Once the onion starts to become golden, add the salt, Italian seasoning and cracked black pepper, and stir to combine, then add in the sliced bell peppers, and allow those to saute with the onion for about 2 minutes until slightly tender and golden.
- Next, add in the garlic, and once it becomes aromatic, add in the white wine and allow it to reduce for a few moments, until almost completely reduced.
- Next, add in the diced tomatoes with their juice, and return the browned spicy Italian sausage back into the pan, and gently fold the mixture to combine; allow it to gently simmer for about 3-4 minutes to blend the flavors, then turn the heat off.
- To finish the sauce, drizzle in about 2-3 good tablespoons of the olive oil to create a silky, rich flavor, and add in the chopped parsley and about half of the julienned basil; stir, and keep warm while you prepare the noodles.
- Prepare the pappardelle noodles according to instructions on package; then, drain the noodles very well, and add them directly into the sauce, using tongs to gently toss and combine the pappardelle noodles with the sauce and all of the ingredients in it; check the seasoning to see if you need to add any additional salt or pepper.
- To serve, add equal portions of the Drunken noodles to bowls, and garnish with a sprinkle of the remaining julienned basil; you can even top with shaved Parmesan, if desired, and an extra drizzle of olive oil.
My Italian Drunken Noodles Adventure: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and satisfying meals can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights often revolve around quick, easy meals, but I also crave something more flavorful and comforting than the usual takeout. That’s where my love affair with Italian Drunken Noodles began. This recipe isn’t just quick; it’s bursting with vibrant flavors and the perfect balance of hearty and light. It’s become a family favorite and a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when I need a meal that’s both impressive and easy.
The first time I made Italian Drunken Noodles, I was skeptical. The name itself sounded a bit…adventurous. But one bite, and I was hooked. The rich tomato sauce, infused with the subtle sweetness of caramelized onions and the spicy kick of Italian sausage, was perfectly complemented by the tender pappardelle noodles. The white wine adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary pasta night. And the fresh basil? It’s the perfect finishing touch, adding a bright, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the sauce.
What truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. I’ve experimented with different types of sausage—spicy Italian is my go-to, but I’ve also tried sweet Italian and even chorizo for a smoky twist. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. A little extra red pepper flakes can add a fiery kick, while a pinch of oregano or thyme can add another layer of complexity. The beauty of this dish is that it’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
Beyond the Weeknight: Don’t think this recipe is limited to weeknights only! I’ve made it for casual weekend gatherings, impressing guests with its ease of preparation and delicious taste. It’s also fantastic for meal prepping. Make a big batch on Sunday, and you’ll have delicious lunches or dinners ready to go throughout the week. Simply store the noodles and sauce separately, then combine and reheat when you’re ready to eat. The flavors even seem to meld beautifully overnight!
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Don't rush the caramelization: Take your time caramelizing the onions. This step adds a depth of sweetness that's crucial to the overall flavor profile.
- Use good quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste. Invest in good quality sausage, fresh herbs, and flavorful tomatoes.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Don't overcook the noodles: Cook the noodles al dente, according to package directions. Overcooked noodles will be mushy and unpleasant.
- Garnish generously: Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese are the perfect finishing touches. Don't be shy with the garnish!
This Italian Drunken Noodles recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It's a testament to the fact that delicious and satisfying food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create a weeknight masterpiece that will leave your family wanting more. So, go ahead, give it a try, and discover your new favorite pasta dish!
Beyond the Recipe: A Little Something Extra
Beyond the deliciousness of this dish, I find that cooking itself is a form of self-care. The rhythmic chopping, the sizzle of the sausage in the pan, the fragrant aroma filling my kitchen – it's a grounding ritual that helps me unwind after a long day. It’s a time to connect with myself, to focus on something tangible and rewarding. And sharing the fruits of my labor with my family? That’s the best reward of all. This recipe, therefore, is not just about the food; it's about the process, the connection, and the joy of creating something delicious for those I love.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Let me know in the comments how it turns out!
