This is a take on classic Italian dishes. There are many varieties of Italian Pasta dishes other than lasagna, Spaghetti, These Italian Drunken Noodles are a highly popular dish in Italy. A truly simple dish made with pasta, tomatoes, garlic and herbs, there is not much effort involved in making this dish any night of the week or for any type of event or celebration.
Ingredients
- 12oz Egg Noodles , cooked to your liking
- 1lb Ground Italian sausage
- 2Bell peppers , chopped
- 3tsp Minced garlic
- 1tsp Italian seasoning
- ½C White cooking wine
- 28oz Can diced tomatoes, not drained
- 1Tbsp Dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley for garnish
How To Make Italian Drunken Noodles
- Add the meat and peppers to a large saucepan or skillet with deep sides over medium-high heat. Cook until the meat is completely browned and the peppers have begun to soften.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Saute 30 seconds longer.
- Mix in the white cooking wine and saute until the liquid in the pot is reduced by half.
- Pour the diced tomatoes into the pot along with the dried basil and salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine well.
- Mix in the cooked noodles and continue to saute until heated through.
- Top with grated Parmesan and fresh chopped parsley for garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why are they called “Drunken Noodles”?
A: The name originates from the addition of wine or spirits to the recipe, infusing the noodles with a delightful boozy essence.
Q2: Can I use any type of wine for this dish?
A: Certainly! While white wine is traditional, you can experiment with red wine or even a splash of vermouth for added depth.
Q3: What makes the sauce in Italian Drunken Noodles special?
A: It’s a tantalizing blend of garlic, tomatoes, and wine, creating a rich and savory base that coats the noodles beautifully.
Q4: Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
A: Absolutely! Substitute meat with mushrooms or tofu, and choose a vegan wine for a delightful plant-based version.
Q5: What type of pasta works best?
A: Thick and hearty pasta like pappardelle or fettuccine complements the robust flavors of the dish.
Q6: How can I prevent the noodles from sticking together?
A: Ensure the noodles are well-coated in the sauce and toss them regularly during cooking to prevent sticking.
Q7: Can I make Italian Drunken Noodles ahead of time?
A: Yes! The flavors often deepen when reheated, making it a great dish for meal prepping.
Q8: What’s the ideal wine pairing for this dish?
A: A medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti or Sangiovese, complements the richness of the sauce and noodles.
