This Italian Drunken Noodles recipe is a bold, flavorful twist on the classic Thai dish, combining al dente pasta with savory Italian ingredients and a splash of wine for a rich, indulgent meal. Think of it as a fusion of Italian comfort food and Asian-inspired boldness—spicy, garlicky, and packed with umami goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests, this dish is quick, easy, and utterly satisfying. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fusion of Flavors: Combines Italian staples like olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan with a hint of spice and wine.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
Customizable: Add your favorite proteins, veggies, or herbs to make it your own.
Versatile: Works with any type of pasta, from spaghetti to fettuccine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dish:
8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work well)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1–2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option)
2 cups fresh spinach or baby kale (optional, for added greens)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for protein
Roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor
A splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Infuse the Oil
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Let the liquid simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly and intensify the flavors.
4. Add Greens and Pasta
Stir in the fresh spinach or baby kale (if using) and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the garlicky, wine-infused sauce.
If the sauce seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Finish with Cheese and Seasoning
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, tossing to combine. The cheese will melt slightly, creating a creamy sauce.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
ADVERTISEMENT
