This Italian twist on the classic Thai drunken noodles combines the best of both cuisines, creating a unique and delicious pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich wine-infused sauce, spicy Italian sausage, and tender pasta, this fusion dish delivers bold flavors and satisfying comfort in every bite.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of Italian ingredients with Asian-inspired cooking techniques creates a perfectly balanced dish. The wine reduction adds depth, while the quick cooking method preserves the freshness of the vegetables and herbs. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both familiar and excitingly different.
Essential Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound pappardelle or wide rice noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt for pasta water
For the Protein and Vegetables:
- 1 pound hot Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup red wine (preferably Italian)
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Finishing:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra basil leaves
- Red pepper flakes
- Extra virgin olive oil
Required Equipment
- Large pot for pasta
- Large skillet or wok
- Colander
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Components
- Start the pasta:
- Bring large pot of salted water to boil
- Cook pasta until al dente
- Reserve 1 cup pasta water
- Drain and toss with olive oil
- Cook the sausage:
- Break into small pieces
- Brown in skillet until crispy
- Remove and set aside
- Prepare vegetables:
- Slice peppers and onions uniformly
- Halve tomatoes
- Mince garlic
- Tear basil leaves
Making the Sauce
- Create the base:
- Add olive oil to skillet
- Sauté peppers and onions
- Add garlic when vegetables are soft
- Build the sauce:
- Add wine and reduce by half
- Stir in chicken stock
- Add tomato paste
- Incorporate seasonings
Final Assembly
- Combine ingredients:
- Return sausage to pan
- Add tomatoes
- Toss in cooked pasta
- Add fresh herbs
- Adjust seasoning
- Finish the dish:
- Add pasta water if needed
- Toss until well combined
- Garnish with basil and cheese
Pro Tips for Success
- Pasta Preparation:
- Salt water generously
- Cook until just al dente
- Reserve pasta water
- Don’t rinse pasta
- Sauce Tips:
- Use good quality wine
- Reduce properly
- Balance flavors
- Watch liquid consistency
- Cooking Advice:
- Keep heat high
- Work quickly
- Don’t overcook vegetables
- Season each component
Variations and Adaptations
Protein Options:
- Sweet Italian sausage
- Chicken
- Shrimp
- Mushrooms (vegetarian)
Pasta Choices:
- Wide rice noodles
- Fettuccine
- Tagliatelle
- Linguine
Heat Levels:
- Mild: Omit pepper flakes
- Medium: As written
- Spicy: Extra pepper flakes
- Extra hot: Add fresh chilies
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Bruschetta
Wine Pairings:
- Chianti
- Sangiovese
- Primitivo
- Zinfandel
Troubleshooting Tips
Sauce Too Thick:
- Add pasta water
- Adjust heat
- Don’t overcook
- Watch reduction
Sauce Too Thin:
- Reduce longer
- Add tomato paste
- Simmer uncovered
- Let pasta absorb
Noodle Issues:
- Don’t overcook
- Toss with oil
- Keep moving in pan
- Add liquid if needed
This Italian Drunken Noodles recipe creates a perfect fusion of Italian and Asian flavors, resulting in a unique and satisfying dish. Whether you’re looking to try something new or craving a comforting pasta dish with a twist, this recipe delivers both innovation and satisfaction in every bite.