Italian Drunken Noodles

Italian Drunken Noodles, also known as “Pasta all’Ubriaco,” is a delicious and flavorful dish that originated in Italy. Made with hearty pasta, Italian sausage, garlic, tomatoes, and a splash of red wine, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (such as Chianti or Merlot)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), red wine, chicken broth, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat it evenly with the sauce. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through.
7. Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the Italian Drunken Noodles with chopped fresh parsley.
8. Serve the noodles hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Tips:

• For a vegetarian version of this dish, you can omit the Italian sausage and use sliced mushrooms or bell peppers instead.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of red wine according to your preference. If you prefer a stronger wine flavor, add more wine; if you prefer a milder flavor, use less wine.
• Leftover Italian Drunken Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion:

Italian Drunken Noodles is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its rich flavors and comforting aroma, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy it with a glass of red wine and crusty bread for a complete Italian dining experience!