Slow Cooker Italian Drunken Noodle is a hearty, comforting dish packed with rich flavors from Italian sausage, bell peppers, and tender pasta. Inspired by classic drunken noodles, this recipe gives an Italian twist that makes it perfect for any weeknight dinner. By using the slow cooker, you can have all the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a delicious, effortless meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1/2 cup dry red wine
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz pappardelle or wide egg noodles
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat and transfer the sausage to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, diced tomatoes (with juice), red wine, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Cook the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded.
Step 3: Add the Noodles
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the pappardelle or wide egg noodles to the slow cooker. Stir to ensure the noodles are submerged in the sauce.
- Cover and cook until the noodles are tender, about 25-30 minutes.
Step 4: Finish with Cream and Serve
- Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- Serve the Italian Drunken Noodle garnished with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy warm with crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Notes
- Pasta: Pappardelle or wide egg noodles work best for this recipe, but you can use other pasta shapes if you prefer. If the noodles absorb too much liquid, you can add more chicken broth to adjust the consistency.
- Wine: Use a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for rich flavor. If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with additional chicken broth.
- Slow Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on the noodles during the last cooking stage to ensure they don’t overcook.
Variations
Chicken Italian Drunken Noodle
- Replace the Italian sausage with boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces for a lighter version of this dish.
Vegetarian Drunken Noodle
- Omit the sausage and add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or sliced mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Spicy Arrabbiata Noodle
- Increase the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon for an extra spicy kick that adds more depth to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, add the sauce to the slow cooker and cook on low while adding the noodles during the last 30 minutes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Italian Drunken Noodle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Use Fresh Pasta?
Fresh pasta can be used but will cook much faster than dried noodles. Add the fresh pasta during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
What Should I Serve With Italian Drunken Noodle?
This dish pairs well with crusty garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Slow Cooker Italian Drunken Noodle is a comforting and flavorful meal that combines the best of Italian flavors with the ease of a slow cooker. Tender sausage, bell peppers, and creamy noodles make for a dish that’s perfect for any family dinner or gathering. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this hearty, satisfying pasta dish with loved ones.
Feel free to experiment with the variations and enjoy every comforting bite of this Italian classic made easy in the slow cooker!