ITALIAN DRUNKEN NOODLES


  • 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or pappardelle work well)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed) OR ground beef/chicken
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup dry red or white wine (choose one you’d enjoy drinking!)
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
  • Extra red pepper flakes for heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

2. Sauté the Sausage

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.

3. Cook the Veggies

  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  2. Add the sliced onion and red bell pepper, cooking for 5–6 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Deglaze with Wine

  1. Pour in the wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for 3–4 minutes, reducing slightly.
  2. Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

5. Combine Everything

  1. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine with the sauce.
  2. Add the fresh spinach or kale, cooking until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Toss in the cooked pasta, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water (if needed) to loosen the sauce. Stir until everything is well coated and heated through.

6. Serve & Enjoy

  1. Divide the noodles among plates or bowls.
  2. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
  3. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Tips for Success

  • Choose the Right Wine: Use a wine you’d enjoy drinking—red wines like Chianti or Merlot work well, or opt for a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
  • Adjust Spice Levels: Add more or less red pepper flakes depending on how much heat you prefer.
  • Add More Veggies: Broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions for extra nutrition.
  • Make It Vegetarian: Skip the sausage and use plant-based protein like chickpeas, lentils, or tofu.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: If available, swap dried herbs for fresh ones (use 1 tablespoon fresh for every 1 teaspoon dried).

Why This Recipe Works

This Italian Drunken Noodles recipe combines the best elements of Italian cooking—savory sausage, aromatic garlic, and rich wine—with a nod to the bold, spicy flavors of Thai Drunken Noodles. The wine-infused sauce creates a luxurious base that ties all the ingredients together, while the red pepper flakes and fresh herbs add layers of complexity. It’s a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with personality, perfect for anyone who loves big, bold flavors.


Conclusion: A Dish Worth Raising a Glass To

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a show-stopping dish for guests, or simply a way to elevate your pasta game, these Italian Drunken Noodles are sure to impress. Their rich flavors, customizable nature, and ease of preparation make them a standout dish that’s as fun to cook as it is to eat. Plus, the wine you use in the recipe doubles as your cooking companion—a win-win!

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your twist on these drunken noodles might just inspire others to try them too! 🍷✨