Slow Cooker Italian Drunken Noodles – A Flavorful One-Pot Comfort Meal

Looking for a hearty, rustic Italian-inspired dish that practically cooks itself? Slow Cooker Italian Drunken Noodles combine savory sausage, tender noodles, and bold flavors simmered in red wine and herbs. It’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This easy comfort food recipe brings together simple ingredients in one slow cooker for a deliciously satisfying dinner the whole family will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1/2 cup dry red wine

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 8 oz wide egg noodles

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the cooked sausage into the bottom of your slow cooker. Add in the sliced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, dry red wine, chicken broth, and tomato paste.
Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Mix and Slow Cook

Stir everything well to combine. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours until vegetables are soft and flavors are well developed.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles Separately

About 20 to 30 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles in a pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.

Step 6: Combine Noodles with Sauce

Stir the cooked noodles into the slow cooker mixture, coating them well with the rich, savory sauce.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and a generous sprinkle of fresh basil before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan and fresh basil. Pair with crusty garlic bread or a green salad for a well-rounded Italian dinner. A glass of red wine complements this dish beautifully!

Variations & Tips

• Lighter Option: Use lean turkey or chicken sausage for fewer calories.

• Vegetarian Twist: Swap the sausage with plant-based crumbles or add hearty veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant.

• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving for a luscious creamy texture.

• Pasta Choices: Substitute egg noodles with pappardelle, penne, or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.

• Make Ahead: You can cook the sauce ahead and refrigerate overnight; just add fresh-cooked noodles before serving.

  Recipe Summary

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 6–8 hours (LOW) or 3–4 hours (HIGH)

  • Total Time: About 6 hours 30 minutes

  • Servings: 4–6

  • Course: Main Course

  • Cuisine: Italian-American Comfort Food

  • Method: Slow Cooker / Crockpot

  • Difficulty: Easy

enjoy!