Spicy Italian Drunken Noodles – Fiery, Garlicky & Irresistible!


 


  • ½ cup dry white wine (or sub chicken broth)

  • 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes

  • ¼ cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Garnishes:

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

  • Extra red pepper flakes

  • Lemon wedges (brightens the dish!)


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Boil noodles al dente (reserve ½ cup pasta water). Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Sausage

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Add sausage, breaking it into crumbles, and cook until browned (~5 mins). Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté the Veggies

  • In the same skillet, add bell peppers and onion. Cook for 3-4 mins until softened.

  • Stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook 1 min until fragrant.

4. Make the Drunken Sauce

  • Pour in wine, scraping up browned bits. Simmer 2 mins to reduce.

  • Add crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and butter. Stir and simmer 5 mins.

5. Combine & Finish

  • Return sausage to the skillet. Add cooked noodles and toss to coat.

  • Stir in Parmesan and pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

6. Serve & Enjoy!

  • Garnish with fresh herbs, extra Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon.


Pro Tips for the Best Drunken Noodles

🔹 Use wide noodles – They hold the sauce better.
🔹 Deglaze with wine – Adds depth (sub broth if needed).
🔹 Adjust spice level – Start with ½ tsp red pepper flakes and add more.
🔹 For extra richness – Stir in 2 tbsp cream cheese at the end.


Variations & Swaps

🍗 Chicken version – Swap sausage for diced chicken thighs.
🍄 Mushroom lover’s – Add sautéed mushrooms for umami.
🌶 Thai-inspired – Swap Italian sausage for ground pork + fish sauce and basil.
🥬 Veggie-packed – Add spinach or zucchini.


FAQs

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use GF pasta or rice noodles.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in the fridge for 3 days—reheat with a splash of broth.

Q: Can I skip the alcohol?
A: Yes, use extra broth + 1 tbsp vinegar for tang.


Final Thoughts

These Spicy Italian Drunken Noodles are bold, saucy, and packed with heat—the ultimate comfort food with a kick! One bite and you’ll be hooked.