Looking for a bold and comforting dinner that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor? These Italian Drunken Noodles blend tender egg noodles, savory Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce that’s simply irresistible. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights and delivers gourmet flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One-pan meal with easy cleanup
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Perfect balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors
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Family-friendly but elegant enough for dinner guests
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High-protein, hearty, and satisfying
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Quick cooking time for busy weeknights
Ingredients Breakdown
Pasta:
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12 oz egg noodles: Soft and wide, egg noodles soak up the savory sauce beautifully.
Meat & Vegetables:
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1 lb ground Italian sausage: Adds bold, spiced flavor and a hearty texture.
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2 bell peppers (chopped): Brings color and sweetness to balance the richness.
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3 tsp minced garlic: Enhances the dish with aromatic depth.
Seasonings:
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1 tsp Italian seasoning: A classic blend of herbs for authentic Italian flavor.
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1 tbsp dried basil: Adds sweet, herbal notes.
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Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balance.
Sauce:
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28 oz can diced tomatoes (with juice): The base of the sauce, providing a chunky texture and vibrant acidity.
Garnish:
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Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty flavor.
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Fresh chopped parsley: Brightens the dish with a pop of color and freshness.
Tips and Tricks
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Use sweet or spicy Italian sausage based on your flavor preference.
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Deglazing the pan is key to building deep flavor—don’t skip this step!
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Cook noodles al dente, especially if you plan to let them simmer in the sauce.
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Add crushed red pepper for a spicier kick.
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Use fresh basil if available for even brighter flavor.
Variations and Customizations
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Make it vegetarian: Swap sausage for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based crumbles.
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Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
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Add greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale before adding the noodles.
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Try different pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or rotini all work well.
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Add cream: For a creamy version, stir in ½ cup heavy cream before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
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Serve with garlic bread or crusty Italian rolls for soaking up the sauce.
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Pair with a green salad topped with a balsamic vinaigrette.
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Enjoy with a glass of dry like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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To Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
Popular Questions
What makes them “drunken” noodles?
The term refers to the use , which deepens flavor and adds a subtle richness.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! The dish reheats well and can be made a day in advance for even better flavor.
Do I need to use egg noodles?
No—feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta, but wide noodles do hold the sauce best.
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