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A rustic ceramic bowl filled with Italian drunken noodles tossed in spicy sausage and red wine tomato sauce, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan.

Italian Drunken Noodles with Spicy Sausage and Wine-Infused Tomato Sauce

Molly
This easy Italian Drunken Noodles recipe brings together spicy Italian sausage, tender egg noodles, bell peppers, and garlic in a wine-kissed tomato sauce—all in one skillet. Packed with bold flavor and ready in under 35 minutes, it's the perfect fusion of comfort and speed for busy weeknights or cozy date nights at home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian-American Fusion
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz egg noodles or pappardelle
  • 1 lb spicy Italian sausage casings removed
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper sliced
  • 1 small onion thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • ½ cup dry white wine Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
  • 1 14 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh basil chopped
  • Grated Parmesan for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell peppers for about 4-5 minutes.
  • Add garlic and red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  • Pour in the wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any brown bits.
  • Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the sausage back to the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Toss in the cooked noodles and chopped basil. Mix well.
  • Serve hot, topped with Parmesan and extra basil.

Notes

Secret Tips for the Flavor-Packed Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl

1. Massage your greens: Before layering your lettuce or spinach, give them a gentle massage with a drizzle of olive oil and lime juice. It softens the texture and makes the greens more flavorful.
2. Season your black beans: Don’t just rinse and toss—mix your canned black beans with a pinch of cumin, garlic powder, and salt for extra flavor depth.
3. Sear for char: Grill or sear the chicken until you get golden brown edges. That little bit of char adds a smoky Southwest kick.
4. Chill before serving: Let the assembled bowl sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving. It helps the flavors meld and keeps everything crisp and refreshing.
5. Batch your dressing: Make extra Greek yogurt lime dressing—it doubles as a killer dip for veggie snacks or tortilla chips throughout the week.
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