Ingredients:
- 8 oz wide pappardelle pasta noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the pappardelle noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and red wine. Add Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to combine and heat through.
- Serve the noodles garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Serving Tip:
- Pair Italian Drunken Noodles with a glass of your favorite red wine for the perfect dining experience.
FAQs:
- Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
- A1: Absolutely! While pappardelle works great, you can experiment with fettuccine or your preferred pasta shape.
- Q2: Is the red wine necessary for the recipe?
- A2: The red wine adds depth to the sauce, but you can substitute it with beef broth if needed.
- Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- A3: Certainly! Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Conclusion:
Italian Drunken Noodles offer a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. With a symphony of flavors from Italian sausage, bell peppers, and a hint of red wine, this recipe is a celebration of culinary excellence. Serve it for a family dinner or impress your guests at your next gathering. Buon Appetito!