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Italian Drunken Noodles 

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

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.

  • Author: niold.com