Italian Drunken Noodles

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When Thai flavors meet Italian comfort, you get something unexpected and undeniably delicious — Italian Drunken Noodles. This colorful and hearty dish is packed with bold flavor, combining wide ribbons of pappardelle with a rich tomato sauce, sweet bell peppers, savory ground meat, and aromatic herbs. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for a family dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering.

While its name might hint at a wild night, this dish is actually inspired by the fusion of Thailand’s spicy drunken noodles and the warmth of a rustic Italian pasta dinner. The “drunken” element here refers more to the bold intensity of the dish than the inclusion of alcohol (though a splash of wine doesn’t hurt!). Whether you’re craving something spicy, savory, or simply satisfying, Italian Drunken Noodles brings it all together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe

• It comes together quickly and easily, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
• The blend of flavors from garlic, fresh herbs, and juicy tomatoes creates depth without being fussy.
• It’s a one-pan wonder when you cook the sauce and toss in the pasta, keeping cleanup minimal.
• You can tweak the spice level, protein, and veggie additions to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• It feels indulgent while still being made from wholesome, everyday ingredients.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Italian Drunken Noodles?

Traditionally, wide noodles like pappardelle or tagliatelle work best because they hold the hearty sauce well and mimic the feel of Thai drunken noodles. However, feel free to use what you have: fettuccine, egg noodles, or even gluten-free varieties all work here. The key is to go with a noodle that has enough surface area to soak up the bold, herby tomato sauce and still carry the meat and veggies in every bite.

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Ingredients for the Italian Drunken Noodles

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a role in building up the bold, satisfying flavor:

• Pappardelle Pasta: These broad ribbons soak up the robust sauce and provide a satisfying bite.
• Ground Italian Sausage or Ground Turkey: Adds rich, savory flavor and heartiness to the dish.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These burst with sweetness and bring brightness to the sauce.
• Red and Yellow Bell Peppers: Add sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.
• Onion: Provides depth and a bit of sweetness once caramelized.
• Garlic: The foundation of any great Italian sauce, adding punch and aroma.
• Fresh Basil and Parsley: Bring freshness and an herby lift to balance the richness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Give that gentle heat that mimics the “drunken” spice kick.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding a touch of richness.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.
• Optional Dry White Wine: A splash elevates the sauce with acidity and depth.

How To Make the Italian Drunken Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Add the ground sausage or turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Toss in the bell peppers and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly tender. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to blister and release juices.

Step 5: Deglaze with Wine (Optional)

Pour in a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let it reduce slightly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with chopped basil and parsley. Toss everything together until well coated. Add a bit of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Plate the pasta and garnish with more fresh herbs. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

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How to Serve and Store Italian Drunken Noodles

This dish is best served immediately after cooking, while the pasta is tender and the sauce is warm and silky. A sprinkle of extra fresh basil or a shaving of parmesan cheese makes it even more irresistible. Italian Drunken Noodles serves 4 people generously, perfect for a family dinner or date night with leftovers.

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce. This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the pasta can lose its texture.

What to Serve With Italian Drunken Noodles?

Crusty Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on the plate.

Simple Green Salad

A light, crisp salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the noodles.

Roasted Vegetables

Caramelized roasted zucchini, eggplant, or carrots make great veggie companions.

Grated Parmesan or Pecorino

Offer a bowl of cheese at the table so guests can add extra as they wish.

Red Wine

A bold red like Chianti or Zinfandel complements the herbs and sausage nicely.

Bruschetta

Start the meal with toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil for an Italian touch.

Sauteed Greens

Spinach or kale with garlic is a healthy and flavorful side.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Simply omit the ground meat and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian-friendly version that still packs plenty of flavor.

What if I can’t find pappardelle pasta?
No problem. Fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even wide egg noodles make great substitutes. The idea is to use a wide, flat noodle that holds the sauce well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cook the pasta fresh before serving, then combine and reheat together.

Is it spicy?
It has a gentle kick thanks to the red pepper flakes, but it’s easy to adjust. Add more for heat-lovers or skip it entirely for a milder version.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner ideas board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use sausage or go the vegetarian route? Did you add a splash of wine?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Find more delicious dinner ideas and daily recipes over on my Pinterest: Meals We Share By Sally.

Conclusion

Italian Drunken Noodles is a beautiful harmony of comforting Italian ingredients with bold, spicy flair. It’s a dish that feels both rustic and exciting, perfect for when you want a dinner that’s both easy to make and unforgettable. Whether you’re spicing it up, keeping it mild, or adding your own twist, it’s sure to be a hit at any table.

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