Italian Drunken Noodles bring together the rich traditions of Italian cuisine and the vibrant flavors of Italian-American fusion. This dish, which combines broad egg noodles with Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and a touch of wine, creates a perfect balance of flavors that is both hearty and satisfying. The dish stands out not just for its flavors but also for its simplicity, making it an ideal option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Below, we will dive into the essential elements of Italian Drunken Noodles, covering everything from ingredients to preparation, tips for making the best version at home, and pairing suggestions.
What Are Italian Drunken Noodles?
Italian Drunken Noodles are a rustic Italian pasta dish that includes broad egg noodles (similar to pappardelle or fettuccine) cooked with Italian sausage, onions, garlic, and a variety of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes. The “drunken” aspect comes from the use of white or red wine, which is deglazed into the sauce, infusing the dish with a rich, deep flavor. The result is a comforting meal with bold Italian flavors, balanced with the slight acidity and sweetness of the wine.
Ingredients for Italian Drunken Noodles
To achieve the perfect balance of flavors in Italian Drunken Noodles, it’s crucial to use fresh and high-quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the core ingredients needed:
- Egg Noodles or Pappardelle: Wide, flat noodles work best for this dish, as they absorb the sauce beautifully and provide a substantial bite.
- Italian Sausage: Choose a good-quality Italian sausage, either sweet or spicy, depending on your preference. The sausage is packed with flavor and serves as the backbone of the dish.
- Olive Oil: A must-have in any Italian dish, extra-virgin olive oil adds depth and richness to the dish.
- Garlic and Onion: These aromatics are essential for building the base flavor of the sauce.
- Bell Peppers: Bright, colorful bell peppers provide sweetness and a bit of texture.
- Tomatoes: Fresh, diced Roma tomatoes or canned San Marzano tomatoes are key for a rich sauce.
- White or Red Wine: This is where the “drunken” comes in. White wine lends a light and crisp flavor, while red wine brings more depth and complexity.
- Fresh Herbs: Basil, oregano, and parsley are commonly used in this dish, offering vibrant and earthy notes.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty finish to the dish.
How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the wide egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7-9 minutes, or until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Italian Sausage
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove the sausage from its casing if necessary and add it to the pan. Cook, breaking the sausage into small pieces, until it is browned and fully cooked through. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then sauté diced onions and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the sliced bell peppers and continue to sauté until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine
Once the vegetables are softened, increase the heat slightly and pour in the wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this is where the flavor intensifies. Allow the wine to simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly and infusing the vegetables with its richness.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Herbs
Next, add the diced tomatoes, along with a pinch of salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs (typically basil and oregano). Stir everything together and allow the tomatoes to cook down into a sauce, about 5 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 6: Combine the Ingredients
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, mixing it into the tomato and wine sauce. Allow the flavors to meld for another 3-4 minutes. Finally, add the drained noodles to the pan, tossing everything together until the noodles are fully coated in the sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the noodles are perfectly combined with the sauce, transfer the dish to a serving platter. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish. Serve immediately with crusty Italian bread and a glass of the wine you used for cooking.
Tips for Making the Best Italian Drunken Noodles
- Choose High-Quality Wine: Since wine is a key ingredient in this dish, it’s important to use a wine that you would enjoy drinking. A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio works well, or if you prefer red, try a Chianti.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: While dried herbs can be used in a pinch, fresh herbs elevate the dish and bring vibrant, bold flavors to the table.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep an eye on your noodles while boiling them. You want them to have a slightly firm bite (al dente) since they will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Make It Your Own: Italian Drunken Noodles are incredibly versatile. You can add mushrooms, zucchini, or even a handful of spinach for added nutrition and flavor.