Italian Drunken Noodles

Italian Drunken Noodles is a vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that combines the robust taste of Italian sausage, the sweetness of bell peppers, and the aromatic presence of fresh basil, all simmered in a rich tomato and wine sauce. The dish gets its name from the addition of white wine, which adds depth and complexity to the sauce, making it a delightful meal perfect for any occasion. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces pappardelle or wide egg noodles
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot, based on preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles: Cook the pappardelle or egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer and reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, and dried oregano. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet, followed by the cooked noodles. Toss everything together until the noodles are well-coated with the sauce. Stir in the fresh basil leaves.
7. Serve: Serve the Italian Drunken Noodles hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Serving:

This dish is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Pair it with a green salad and a glass of the same white wine used in the sauce for a complete meal. Enjoy!

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