Ingredients
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
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!
Notes
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.