Slow Cooker Italian Drunken Noodle Recipe

Slow Cooker Italian Drunken Noodle is a flavorful and hearty dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner. Inspired by the classic Italian flavors of sausage, tomatoes, and red wine, this dish combines tender pasta with savory Italian sausage and a rich, tomato-based sauce. The slow cooker does all the work, making it an easy, hands-off meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Introduction

If you’re looking for an easy, comforting meal that’s full of rich Italian flavors, this Slow Cooker Italian Drunken Noodle is the perfect choice. With savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a delicious sauce made with tomatoes and red wine, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and easy to make. The slow cooker allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a deliciously rich pasta dish with minimal effort.

Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this Italian Drunken Noodle recipe is sure to please the whole family. Serve it with a side of crusty bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry red wine
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 oz pappardelle or wide egg noodles
• 1 cup beef broth
• Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

1. Transfer the cooked sausage mixture to the slow cooker.
2. Add the red wine, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage Mixture

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the flavors are well combined.

Step 4: Add the Noodles

1. About 30 minutes before serving, add the beef broth and uncooked pappardelle or wide egg noodles to the slow cooker.
2. Stir to combine, making sure the noodles are submerged in the sauce.
3. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
2. Serve warm with crusty bread.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Sausage: Use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preference. You can also use a mix of both for added flavor.
• Red Wine: The red wine adds depth to the sauce, but you can substitute beef broth if you prefer not to use alcohol.
• Noodles: Pappardelle or wide egg noodles work best for this dish, but you can use any pasta you like. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if using a different type of pasta.

Variations

• Vegetable Addition: Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms to the slow cooker for added texture and flavor.
• Creamy Version: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a creamy sauce.
• Cheese Lovers: Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker during the last 15 minutes of cooking for extra cheesiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Sausage?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef for the Italian sausage, but the flavor will be slightly different. You may want to add extra Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover Italian drunken noodle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I Freeze This Dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked sausage mixture without the noodles. Once thawed, add freshly cooked noodles before serving.

4. Can I Use White Wine Instead of Red Wine?

Yes, you can use white wine instead of red wine, but the flavor will be lighter and less rich. You can also substitute with additional beef broth.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve this dish with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the rich sauce.
• Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for added nutrition.

Slow Cooker Italian Drunken Noodle is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With savory sausage, tender noodles, and a rich, flavorful sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy, allowing you to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of Italy in every bite!