Champagne Cream Pasta with Parmesan

Name: Champagne Cream Pasta with Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 350g pasta (fettuccine or tagliatelle); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup dry champagne; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Baking Ideas

I absolutely adore this Champagne Cream Pasta with Parmesan! Every time I make it, I’m reminded of joyous celebrations and the elegance of simple ingredients. The combination of sparkling champagne and rich cream creates a luxurious sauce that clings beautifully to al dente pasta. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a special gathering. Pairing it with freshly grated Parmesan elevates the dish further, adding a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess. Each bite becomes a festive experience that I just can't resist.

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-01-08T10:55:38.738Z

Preparing this dish has become a cherished tradition for me. Once, I was hosting a dinner party and decided to surprise my guests with something unique. I found that using champagne not only adds an incredible depth of flavor but also infuses a celebratory vibe into the meal. My friends’ delighted reactions made it a night to remember.

One specific tip I've learned is to use a dry champagne, as it balances the richness of the cream. I also recommend freshly grated Parmesan over pre-packaged options—its texture and flavor make a remarkable difference. The result is a dish that feels indulgent yet surprisingly easy to prepare.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce enriched with sparkling champagne.
Hearty pasta that comforts and satisfies.
Perfect for special occasions or date nights.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Champagne Cream Pasta is undoubtedly the champagne. A dry variety not only enhances the flavor of the sauce, but also adds essential acidity to balance the richness of the cream. When choosing your champagne, look for a quality bottle you’d enjoy sipping, as its flavor will directly influence the final dish. If champagne isn't available, a dry sparkling wine, like Prosecco or Cava, can serve as an excellent alternative.

Heavy cream plays a pivotal role, lending a luxurious texture to the sauce that perfectly clings to the pasta. It’s important to use heavy cream instead of lighter creams, as it has a higher fat content, which contributes to a creamy consistency without curdling when combined with the champagne. For a lighter version, you can experiment with half-and-half, but note that the final dish will be less rich.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

The cooking process for this dish is as significant as the ingredients. When sautéing the garlic, be attentive; cook it just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, to avoid bitterness. Using a larger skillet ensures the sauce cooks evenly and allows for the right evaporation of the champagne, intensifying its flavor. If you notice the garlic starting to brown quickly, reduce the heat immediately to maintain its mild flavor.

Mixing in the reserved pasta water is a vital step if the sauce becomes too thick. Start by adding just a few tablespoons at a time, mixing until you achieve a glossy finish. The right consistency should coat the pasta without being overly soupy. This technique not only enhances texture but also helps the sauce cling perfectly to every piece of fettuccine or tagliatelle.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Champagne Cream Pasta:

Ingredients

350g pasta (fettuccine or tagliatelle)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup dry champagne
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Champagne Cream Pasta:

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 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Add Champagne and Cream

Pour in the champagne and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Then reduce the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Mix well, and if needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve desired consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and chopped parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding cooked shrimp or grilled chicken to the pasta before serving for a more hearty meal.

Serving Suggestions

For a romantic dinner, serve the Champagne Cream Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad. The fresh greens can help cut through the richness of the cream and pair beautifully with the nutty flavor of the Parmesan. You might also consider a light, crisp white wine, complementing the dish's celebratory feel.

Garnishing with chopped parsley not only adds a splash of color but also a fresh herbal note that balances the creamy sauce. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving for an additional brightness that elevates the whole experience.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but for a time-saving approach, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Cook the sauce up to the point of mixing in the heavy cream, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently over medium-low heat and continue with the remaining steps.

To reheat, add a splash of water or a bit more cream to loosen the sauce, ensuring it doesn’t get too thick. Avoid using high heat, which can cause the cream to separate and lose its smooth texture. Just a few minutes should suffice to bring it back to life, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any long pasta like spaghetti or linguine works well with this sauce.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich. Coconut cream is a good non-dairy alternative.

→ Can I use sparkling wine instead of champagne?

Absolutely! Any dry sparkling wine will work perfectly in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.