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Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe

Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5.2 from 22 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A bold and comforting Italian-style pasta dish with sausage, wine, peppers, and basil—perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.


Ingredients

  • 12 oz pappardelle noodles
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian sausage or ground chicken
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes
  • 3/4 cup dry white or red wine
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pappardelle noodles until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage or ground chicken, cook until browned, then transfer to a bowl, leaving juices in the pan.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté diced onion and sliced red bell pepper until softened and golden, about 5–7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in cherry or canned tomatoes and pour in wine. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
  5. Return cooked sausage to the skillet. Add drained noodles and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in torn basil leaves and Parmesan cheese. Serve warm, garnished with more basil and Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Use pappardelle, tagliatelle, or fettuccine for best results.
  • For vegetarian version, swap meat with mushrooms or plant-based crumbles.
  • Make ahead by prepping sausage and veggies in advance.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and warm gently in a skillet or microwave.