Italian Drunken Noodles: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Pasta Dish

If you’re a fan of spicy, savory, and comforting pasta dishes, then Italian Drunken Noodles are a must-try! This dish takes inspiration from the classic Thai drunken noodles but gives it an Italian twist—featuring wide egg noodles, spicy Italian sausage, sweet tomatoes, and fresh basil all tossed in a rich, garlicky wine sauce.

This meal is quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner, special occasion, or meal prep favorite.

Let’s get into the recipe, step-by-step instructions, and pro tips to make this dish absolutely irresistible!

Why Everyone Loves Italian Drunken Noodles

✅ Easy to Make – Ready in 30 minutes with minimal effort.
✅ Full of Flavor – Spicy Italian sausage, garlic, and wine create a rich, bold taste.
✅ Comforting & Hearty – A perfect balance of protein, carbs, and fresh herbs.
✅ Great for Any Occasion – Ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or meal prep.
✅ Customizable – Easily adjust the spice level, switch up the proteins, or add veggies!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta & Sauce

8 ounces wide egg noodles
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage (spicy or mild, casings removed)
1 large onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon crushed fennel seeds (optional, enhances sausage flavor)

For Garnishing

½ cup fresh basil, chopped
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Cook the Italian Sausage

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add Italian sausage (casings removed) and break it apart with a spoon.
Cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics & Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
Add garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds, stirring frequently.
Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine & Create the Sauce

Pour in the white wine and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze it.
Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
Add chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and fennel seeds.
Stir well and let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
Add the drained egg noodles, tossing them in the sauce until fully coated.
If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Finish & Serve

Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and extra red pepper flakes (if desired).
Serve immediately and enjoy this bold, flavorful pasta dish!

Serving Suggestions

🔥 Garlic Bread – Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
🥗 Side Salad – A simple green salad with balsamic dressing balances the richness.
🍷 Wine Pairing – Enjoy with a glass of white wine (Pinot Grigio) or light red wine (Chianti).
🧄 Extra Toppings – Add more cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon for extra depth.

Tips for the Best Italian Drunken Noodles

🔹 Use Good Quality Wine – Choose a dry white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) for the best flavor.
🔹 Make It Spicier – Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes for heat.
🔹 Don’t Overcook the Noodles – Cook al dente so they soak up the sauce without getting mushy.
🔹 Add More Veggies – Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach make great additions.
🔹 Swap the Protein – Try this recipe with chicken, shrimp, or ground turkey for a different twist.

Fun Variations to Try

🔥 Creamy Italian Drunken Noodles – Stir in ½ cup heavy cream for a rich, creamy sauce.
🥓 Bacon & Sausage Version – Add crispy bacon for extra smokiness.
🌱 Vegetarian Twist – Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms and zucchini.
🧀 Extra Cheesy Version – Mix in mozzarella or fontina cheese for a gooey finish.
🍅 Tomato-Based Version – Add ½ cup of marinara sauce for a deeper tomato flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or wine.

Can I Freeze Italian Drunken Noodles?

You can freeze the sauce and sausage mixture for up to 2 months, but it’s best to cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.

Can I Make This Without Wine?

Yes! Substitute extra chicken broth and a squeeze of lemon juice for a similar depth of flavor.

What Other Pasta Can I Use?

While wide egg noodles work best, you can use pappardelle, fettuccine, or tagliatelle for a similar texture.

Final Thoughts

Italian Drunken Noodles are the ultimate comfort food, combining bold, spicy sausage, fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and silky noodles in a flavorful garlic-wine sauce.

This dish is hearty, satisfying, and quick to make, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious and impressive without too much effort.

Try this recipe today, and enjoy a restaurant-worthy pasta dish right at home!