Italian Drunken Noodles

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.

2. Brown the sausage
   While pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add sausage, breaking it into bite-sized pieces with a spoon. Cook until browned and crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon, leaving drippings in the pan.

3. Build the sauce
   Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in red wine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Let wine reduce by half (2–3 minutes).

4. Tomato base
   Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and smoked paprika (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.

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