- 12 oz pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or pappardelle work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (e.g., Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
2. Sauté the Garlic
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Deglaze with Wine
- Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to enhance the flavor.
- Simmer for 3–5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the liquid to reduce slightly.
4. Build the Sauce
- Stir in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Optional: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for added sweetness and depth.
5. Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Divide the noodles among serving plates.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Pair with a glass of the same wine used in the recipe for a complete experience.
- Enjoy every bite of these rich, flavorful, and indulgent Italian Drunken Noodles!
- Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete dinner.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Wine: Use a dry white wine you’d enjoy drinking—it makes a difference in the sauce.
- Add Protein: Sauté chicken, Italian sausage, or shrimp and incorporate it into the dish for added heartiness.
- Experiment with Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
Why This Recipe Works
These Italian Drunken Noodles combine the comforting texture of al dente pasta with the bold, wine-infused flavors of a creamy sauce into a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced cooking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something rich and indulgent, looking for a way to simplify pasta night, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, these Italian Drunken Noodles are sure to delight. Their bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make them a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, their adaptability means you can tailor them to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this dish might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
