Introduction
Transform simple pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy Italian Drunken Noodles masterpiece! This recipe is all about bringing big flavor to the table without the fuss. Get ready for a quick, easy, and utterly delicious weeknight meal the whole family will adore. It’s comfort food elevated!
Why This Works
This recipe shines because it’s a beautiful balance of savory and slightly sweet. The rich tomato sauce intertwines perfectly with the garlic, herbs, and a subtle touch of sweetness, creating a symphony of flavor that’s addictive. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, using ingredients you probably already have!
Key Ingredients
🍝 1 pound spaghetti
🍅 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
🌶️ 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
🧀 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
🫒 2 tablespoons olive oil
🍷 1/2 cup dry red wine
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2️⃣ Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds depth of flavor!
4️⃣ Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, basil, and parsley. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
5️⃣ Combine and Serve: Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- Use good quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice!
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. Start with less and add more if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Fresh herbs make all the difference! If you don’t have fresh basil and parsley, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley.
Heat Control
Medium heat is key for sautéing the onions and garlic to prevent burning. Low heat is best for simmering the sauce, allowing the flavors to develop gradually without scorching.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on a delicious, creamy sauce, you can add a bit of crunch by topping with toasted pine nuts or some crumbled bacon before serving.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of sugar to the sauce to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end adds a nice tangy kick.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-minced garlic.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish is perfect for potlucks or taking to a friend’s house! You can pack it in a pretty, reusable container with a festive ribbon.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Sausage: Add 1/2 pound of Italian sausage, casings removed, to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
🌟 Mushroom Medley: Sauté a mix of mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or oyster) with the onions for an earthy twist.
🌟 Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce for a bright, citrusy note.
🌟 Spinach Power: Stir in a cup of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
Troubleshooting
- Sauce too thick: Add a little more pasta water or a splash of broth to thin it out.
- Sauce too thin: Simmer the sauce uncovered for a longer time to reduce it.
- Pasta sticking together: Make sure to toss the pasta with the sauce immediately after draining.
FAQ
- Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle.
- Can I make this ahead of time? The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta and combine when ready to serve.
- What kind of red wine should I use? A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Chianti works well.
Conclusion
This Italian Drunken Noodles recipe is a true family pleaser – quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. We hope you enjoy this comforting and delicious meal! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us on social media—we can’t wait to see your delicious results!
Crazy Good Italian Drunken Noodles
A vibrant and flavorful dish combining the essence of Italian ingredients with the playful twist of drunken noodles, perfect for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces wide rice noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sautu00e9 the onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Toss in the cooked noodles and fresh basil, stirring until everything is well combined.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the vegetables in olive oil and herbs before cooking.
- Serve with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for a beautiful presentation.