Italian Drunken Noodles

🍝 Italian Drunken Noodles (Pasta alla “Ubriaca”)

Mediterranean-Style | Bold • Savory • Family Favorite

🫒 Description

Italian Drunken Noodles is a rustic Mediterranean pasta dish inspired by pasta alla ubriaca, where pasta simmers in tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and a splash of wine for deep, rich flavor. Loaded with tender noodles, savory protein, and aromatic herbs, it’s comforting, vibrant, and perfect for sharing. One pan, big flavor—and yes, you’ll want to make a double batch.

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🧺 Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 12 oz pasta (pappardelle, fettuccine, or penne)

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 lb Italian sausage or ground chicken/turkey

• 1 small onion, sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• ½ cup dry red wine (the “drunken” part)

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp dried basil

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped

• Grated Parmesan for serving

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water. Drain.

2. Build the Sauce
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Brown sausage (or ground meat), breaking it up. Remove excess fat if needed.

3. Add Veggies & Garlic
   Add onion and bell pepper. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened.
   Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes.

4. Deglaze with Wine
   Pour in red wine. Simmer 2–3 minutes to cook off alcohol and concentrate flavor.

5. Tomatoes & Herbs
   Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer 8–10 minutes.

6. Combine with Pasta
   Add pasta to sauce, tossing well. Add pasta water as needed for silkiness.

7. Finish & Serve
   Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and Parmesan.

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🍽 Mediterranean Serving Ideas

• With a simple green salad & olive oil dressing

• Alongside garlic bread or focaccia

• Finish with extra basil and chili flakes

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❓ Q & A

Q: Why is it called “drunken” noodles?
A: The sauce simmers with wine, giving it deep, rich flavor—no actual noodles are drunk 😄

Q: Can I make this without wine?
A: Yes—sub with extra tomato sauce plus a splash of balsamic vinegar.

Q: Is this spicy?
A: Only if you add red pepper flakes—easy to adjust.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Absolutely—swap meat for mushrooms, zucchini, or olives.

Q: Does this reheat well?
A: Very well! Add a splash of water or olive oil when reheating.