Why I Love This Recipe
Some recipes take you right back to moments that feel like home. I first had something like this at a tiny trattoria during a road trip with my cousin. We were two broke college kids exploring new places and sharing meals wherever we landed. One night, the cook brought out a plate that smelled like heaven—wide noodles tangled with spicy sausage, sweet peppers, and a sauce that hit all the right notes.
Years later, I recreated it in my own kitchen, tweaking it to skip the wine but keep all the flavor. It’s now one of my go-to comfort meals, especially on cool nights when I want something hearty and satisfying.
And the best part? It comes together in one pan (well, mostly), and it’s full of bold, rich flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about what goes into this recipe and why each ingredient matters:
12 oz wide egg noodles or pappardelle
These noodles soak up the sauce beautifully. Pappardelle has a rustic texture and holds up well against the hearty sausage. Egg noodles give a softer, buttery mouthfeel.1 lb Italian sausage (hot or mild), casings removed
This adds richness and flavor. Choose hot if you like spice, or mild for a more kid-friendly version. You can also sub with ground turkey or plant-based sausage.1 red + 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
These bring sweetness and color. Their natural sugars caramelize slightly when cooked, adding depth to the dish.1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
Red onions add a subtle sweetness. You can use yellow onions if that’s what you have, but red keeps the dish vibrant.3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic brings the classic aroma that ties everything together. Use fresh—jarred won’t give the same punch.1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For those who like a bit of heat. Leave it out if you’re sensitive to spice.1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth + 1 tbsp white vinegar (or lemon juice)
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
The base of the sauce. Go for fire-roasted tomatoes if you want a smoky kick.1 tsp dried oregano
Classic Italian herb that brings warmth and depth. Feel free to toss in some thyme or Italian seasoning as well.Salt and black pepper to taste
Season as you go. Taste often!1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
Fresh herbs add a final pop of brightness. Basil works best here, but parsley will still give a lovely lift.Freshly grated Parmesan (for topping)
Adds savory richness and completes the dish. Use real Parmigiano-Reggiano if you can.
Ingredient Notes & Variations
No pappardelle? Use fettuccine or even rigatoni.
Vegetarian version: Use plant-based sausage and veggie broth.
Extra veggies? Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can bulk it up.
More heat? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Equipment Needed
This recipe keeps it simple.
Large skillet or sauté pan
Wide enough to hold everything without crowding.Pot for boiling noodles
A medium pot works fine. Salt the water well.Tongs or wooden spoon
For tossing everything together gently.
Don’t have a large skillet? Split the sauce and mix it in batches, then combine everything in a large mixing bowl before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to bring it all together.
1. Cook the noodles
Boil the egg noodles or pappardelle in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Toss with a tiny splash of oil to keep them from sticking.
Tip: Don’t overcook the pasta—it will absorb sauce later and continue to soften.
2. Brown the sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbly (about 6-8 minutes). Break it up with a wooden spoon. Once cooked, transfer it to a plate and set aside.
Smells amazing already, right?
3. Sauté the vegetables
In the same skillet (don’t clean it!), add a bit of oil if needed. Sauté the red onion and both bell peppers over medium heat until softened, about 5–6 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly.
Want deeper flavor? Let the onions and peppers get slightly charred before adding garlic.
4. Build the sauce
Add the chicken broth and white vinegar (or lemon juice). Stir to deglaze the pan—scrape up all those browned sausage bits. Then pour in the diced tomatoes and their juices.
Stir in the dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
5. Bring it all together
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Stir to combine. Add the drained noodles and toss gently to coat everything with the sauce.
Let it cook together for 2–3 minutes over low heat so the noodles soak up the flavor.
6. Finish and serve
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley. Plate the noodles and top with a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan.
Pro Tip: Add a drizzle of good olive oil over the finished dish before serving. It boosts the richness and gives a glossy finish.
Pro Tip
Here are a few expert tips to elevate your dish:
Flavor boost: For a richer flavor, add a splash of heavy cream at the end. It creates a creamy sauce that blends beautifully with the spicy sausage and peppers.
Texture: If you want a bit of crunch, toast some pine nuts or breadcrumbs and sprinkle them on top before serving. It adds a delightful contrast to the soft noodles.
Herb swap: Fresh thyme or rosemary can replace basil for a different herbal profile. Rosemary brings an aromatic depth, while thyme gives an earthy, rustic flavor.
Tips for the Best Italian Drunken Noodles
Don’t overcook the pasta: The noodles should still have a slight bite to them before adding to the sauce. Overcooking can result in mushy noodles that won’t hold up in the dish.
Let the sausage brown well: Browning the sausage until it gets crispy bits is key. Those little crispy bits add so much flavor to the sauce and the dish as a whole.
Balance the sauce: Taste your sauce before serving. If it’s too tangy, add a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity from the tomatoes and vinegar. A small splash of olive oil at the end can also smooth out any sharpness.
Ingredient Notes
Italian sausage: It’s what gives this dish its signature rich, savory flavor. You can choose between hot or mild based on your spice preference. For a healthier option, swap it out for ground turkey sausage or chicken sausage. The flavor will be milder but still delicious.
Low-sodium broth: This helps control the salt level in the dish. If you use regular broth, be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Fresh herbs: Fresh basil or parsley add a burst of color and freshness at the end. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but they won’t have the same vibrant effect.
Special Equipment Notes
No fancy gadgets are needed for this dish, just a sturdy skillet and a pot for the pasta. If you don’t have a large skillet, you can use a large saucepan, but you’ll need to be a bit more careful while tossing everything together.
If you want to make this meal quicker, use a pasta pot with a strainer insert so you can easily drain the noodles and keep them from sticking together.
1. Transform Your Weeknight Dinners with These Italian Drunken Noodles
Looking for a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor? Italian Drunken Noodles are the perfect choice. With a mix of spicy sausage, crisp vegetables, and a tangy tomato-based sauce, this dish brings everything you love about Italian cooking into one easy, satisfying meal. Serve it up on a busy weeknight or make it for a special dinner—you’ll find yourself coming back for more.
2. Why Italian Drunken Noodles Will Be Your New Favorite Pasta Recipe
Italian Drunken Noodles are the answer to your pasta cravings! With rich flavors from Italian sausage, vibrant peppers, and the perfect balance of tangy and spicy, this dish will keep you coming back for seconds. It’s quick, delicious, and so easy to make—you’ll be looking for any excuse to whip it up again. Make it for your next family dinner or impress your friends at a weekend gathering!
Final Thoughts
This dish has everything you want: it’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. The combination of spicy sausage, sweet peppers, and hearty noodles in a tangy sauce is sure to make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or prepping for a weekend gathering, Italian Drunken Noodles are sure to impress.
I love that this dish can be customized with different herbs, pasta shapes, or even meat choices to suit your preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite playlist, and get ready to create a meal that will bring a little joy to your kitchen.
Common Questions (FAQs)
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes! You can easily swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta tends to cook faster than traditional pasta.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the sausage and vegetable sauce before adding the noodles. When ready to serve, just thaw and heat up, then cook the noodles fresh and toss them in. Freezing the noodles along with the sauce can result in a slightly mushy texture when reheated, so I recommend adding the fresh noodles each time.
What can I serve with these noodles?
These noodles are filling on their own, but a simple side salad or crusty bread would pair beautifully. Try a Caesar salad or a tangy arugula salad to cut through the richness of the dish.
1. Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While wide egg noodles or pappardelle work great in this dish, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti would work just as well. Keep in mind that different pasta shapes will change the texture and how the sauce clings to the noodles, but it’ll still be delicious!
2. What can I substitute for the sausage if I prefer a vegetarian version?
For a vegetarian twist, try using plant-based sausage or crumbled tempeh. Both options will give you a similar texture and flavor profile. You can also add extra vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini, for added depth and heartiness. If you’re looking to keep it light, even roasted cauliflower or lentils can make a satisfying substitute.
Italian Drunken Noodles are the perfect comfort food, combining rich, savory sausage with sweet peppers, tangy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked noodles. This dish is not only easy to make but also versatile and packed with flavor that’ll satisfy everyone at your table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. So, go ahead, try it out, and let the wonderful aromas fill your home. Enjoy the delicious journey of cooking and eating these mouthwatering noodles!