italian drunken noodles

Italian Drunken Noodles 

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) wide egg noodles or pappardelle
• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• ½ cup white or red wine (white for a lighter taste, red for deeper flavor)
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Boil water with a pinch of salt and cook the noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Sausage:

   • In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles, and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

   • In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
   • Sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired.

4. Make the Sauce:

   • Pour in the wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
   • Add diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   • Return the cooked sausage to the pan and let everything simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.

5. Combine and Serve:

   • Toss the cooked noodles into the sauce and mix well.
   • Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with garlic bread and a side salad.
• Pair with a glass of the same wine used in the sauce for a perfect meal.

Let me know if you give it a try!