Bring the vibrant flavors of Italy to your table with this colorful and hearty dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Italian Drunken Noodles combine pappardelle pasta with savory Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a hint of white wine, creating a bold and irresistible meal that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Ingredients
12 oz wide pappardelle pasta
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 orange bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pappardelle pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions (about 8-10 minutes).
Drain and set aside, saving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Cook the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon or spatula.
Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add the diced yellow, red, and orange bell peppers.
Sauté until slightly softened, about 4-5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices, about 3 minutes.
- Deglaze with White Wine
Pour in the dry white wine and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet, incorporating them into the sauce for added flavor.
- Combine Everything
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet.
Add the drained pappardelle pasta and toss everything together to coat the noodles in the sauce.
If the mixture seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Season and Garnish
Adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using).
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Italian Drunken Noodles warm with a side of:
Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread.
A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
A glass of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the dish’s flavors.
Recipe Notes & Tips
Pasta Alternatives: If pappardelle isn’t available, substitute with tagliatelle, fettuccine, or any wide ribbon pasta.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely for a veggie-forward version.
Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, chicken or vegetable broth can be used as a substitute.
Extra Creaminess: Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~600 kcal
Protein: ~20 g
Carbohydrates: ~70 g
Fat: ~25 g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
Packed with Flavor: The combination of sausage, bell peppers, garlic, and white wine creates a robust and unforgettable taste.
Customizable: Adjust spice levels, add more vegetables, or experiment with different sausages to suit your taste.
Make your dinner table the highlight of the evening with this vibrant and satisfying dish. Enjoy! 🍝