Italian Drunken Noodles with Sausage and Bell Peppers – Easy Dinner Recipe

Italian Drunken Noodles with Sausage and Bell Peppers is a delicious, hearty pasta dish loaded with savory Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, tender wide noodles, and a rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce. The sausage adds a satisfying, savory taste, while the sweet peppers, garlic, and Italian seasonings bring every bite to life. Tossed together until the noodles are coated in the delicious sauce, this comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, filling, and full of flavor. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete family dinner.

Italian Drunken Noodles with Sausage and Bell Peppers

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Food Description

Italian Drunken Noodles with Sausage and Bell Peppers is a delicious, hearty pasta dish loaded with savory Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, tender wide noodles, and a rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce. The sausage adds a satisfying, savory taste, while the sweet peppers, garlic, and Italian seasonings bring every bite to life. Tossed together until the noodles are coated in the delicious sauce, this comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, filling, and full of flavor. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete family dinner.

Ingredients

• 12 oz wide egg noodles or pappardelle pasta

• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 orange bell pepper, sliced

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or basil

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, optional

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

2. Brown the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it into bite-sized crumbles until browned and cooked through.

3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened but still slightly crisp.

4. Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

5. Make the sauce: Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and simmer for 5–8 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

6. Combine the noodles: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are coated in the sauce. Add a little reserved pasta water if needed.

7. Finish the dish: Stir in the fresh parsley or basil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.

8. Serve: Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.

Recipe Details

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 4–6

• Category: Dinner, Pasta, Italian-Inspired Recipes

• Cooking method: Stovetop

Tips for the Best Italian Drunken Noodles

• Choose flavorful sausage: Mild or spicy Italian sausage both work well.

• Don't overcook the peppers: Keeping them slightly firm adds texture and color.

• Cook the noodles al dente: They will absorb some sauce when tossed in the skillet.

• Adjust the heat: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or leave them out for a milder family-friendly version.

• Make it extra rich: Finish with freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months, although the peppers and pasta may soften slightly after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called drunken noodles?

The name is commonly associated with noodle dishes that feature bold seasonings and a flavorful sauce. This Italian-inspired version uses sausage, peppers, tomatoes, and herbs rather than traditional Thai drunken noodle ingredients.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes! Pappardelle, fettuccine, tagliatelle, or wide egg noodles all work well.

Can I make this recipe without alcohol?

Yes. This version uses chicken broth and tomatoes, so wine is not necessary.

Make Italian Drunken Noodles with sausage and bell peppers for an easy, flavorful dinner featuring tender pasta, Italian sausage, colorful peppers, and savory tomato sauce.

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