Italian Drunken Noodles

 Italian Drunken Noodles – A Bold and Flavorful Twist on a Classic

If you’re looking for a pasta dish that combines bold Italian flavors with the comfort of a hearty meal, this Italian Drunken Noodles recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with rich tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a savory meat sauce, this dish is a family favorite that’s so irresistible, you’ll want to make a double batch every time.

Unlike traditional Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao), which are a popular Thai stir-fry, this Italian-inspired version brings a robust, wine-infused tomato sauce to tender whole-wheat pasta, creating a dish that is both nutritious and indulgent. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or hosting a dinner party, this recipe will leave everyone at the table reaching for seconds.

---

Why You’ll Love This Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe

✔ Rich and Hearty: A deeply flavored sauce that simmers to perfection.

✔ Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

✔ Customizable: Adjust the spice level, use different proteins, or add extra veggies.

✔ Great for Meal Prep: Makes fantastic leftovers, and flavors deepen overnight.

---

Ingredients and Their Roles

For the Sauce:

1 pound lean ground beef or turkey – Adds protein and richness to the sauce. Choose turkey for a leaner option.

1 onion, chopped – Enhances the base with a natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

2 carrots, chopped – Adds a subtle sweetness and boosts the nutritional value.

2 celery stalks, chopped – Provides an aromatic, slightly earthy flavor that complements the sauce.

4 cloves garlic, minced – Brings bold, fragrant notes essential to Italian cooking.

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, undrained – The heart of the sauce, giving it a rich and tangy tomato base.

1 cup low-sodium beef broth – Deepens the flavor while keeping the sauce light.

1/2 cup dry red wine (optional) – Enhances the depth and complexity of the sauce. Choose a wine you’d drink!

1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds classic Italian herbaceousness.

1/2 teaspoon dried basil – Complements the tomatoes with its slightly sweet, peppery taste.

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Provides a subtle heat for those who enjoy a little spice.

Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.

For the Pasta:

1 pound whole-wheat pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine) – A hearty, fiber-rich pasta that pairs beautifully with the sauce.

For Serving:

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, umami-rich finishing touch.

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, then drain any excess grease.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become tender and fragrant. This step builds the flavor foundation of the sauce.

3. Build the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and red wine (if using). Stir well to combine. Add the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

4. Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole-wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

5. Combine and Serve

Once the sauce has thickened and developed rich flavors, add the cooked pasta directly into the pot. Toss to coat the noodles thoroughly in the sauce. Serve immediately with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

---

Pro Tips for the Best Italian Drunken Noodles

✔ Use Quality Ingredients: The better your crushed tomatoes and red wine, the richer your sauce.

✔ Simmer Low and Slow: A longer simmering time allows the flavors to develop fully.

✔ Add More Vegetables: Try zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.

✔ Adjust the Spice: Like it spicier? Increase the red pepper flakes. Want it milder? Leave them out.

✔ Use Fresh Herbs if Possible: Fresh basil and oregano add an incredible burst of flavor.

---

Serving Suggestions

To complete this meal, serve your Italian Drunken Noodles with:

Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

A Crisp Green Salad – Balances the richness with freshness.

Roasted Vegetables – Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or bell peppers pair beautifully.

A Glass of Red Wine – If you used wine in the sauce, serve the same one for a cohesive flavor experience.

---

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This Italian Drunken Noodles recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting, flavor-packed experience. The combination of savory meat, rich tomato sauce, and hearty pasta makes this a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. Best of all, it’s easy to customize and can be made healthier with simple ingredient swaps.

Ready to enjoy a 

restaurant-quality meal at home? Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to double the batch—you’ll be glad you did!