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Italian Drunken Noodles with Sausage & Peppers

Italian Drunken Noodles with Sausage & Peppers

Italian Drunken Noodles with Sausage & Peppers is a vibrant, hearty, and flavorful dish combining Italian spicy or sweet sausage with colorful bell peppers and wide noodles in a one-pan stir-fry. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy-to-make recipe offers bold flavors and a satisfying texture perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Sausage & Vegetables

  • 12 oz Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped

Noodles & Seasonings

  • 8 oz wide noodles (flat rice noodles or fettuccine)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish (optional)

  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Noodles: Cook your chosen noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. This ensures noodles maintain the perfect texture to absorb the sauce without becoming mushy.
  2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant and translucent. Then add the sliced bell peppers and cook until tender but still crisp, preserving their vibrant crunch.
  4. Combine Everything: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, add the cooked noodles, and toss to combine. Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste. Let the mixture cook together on medium heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb all the delicious flavors.
  5. Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped basil or parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for a fresh and savory finish.

Notes

  • Use high-quality sausage to maximize flavor—artisan or fresh sausages work best.
  • Do not overcook the bell peppers; keep them slightly crisp for texture contrast.
  • Cook noodles just before combining to prevent them from becoming soggy.
  • Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
  • Sprinkle fresh herbs at the end for aromatic brightness that enhances the dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian sausage, drunken noodles, sausage and peppers, one-pan meal, quick dinner, easy stir-fry, gluten-free option