Champagne Cream Pasta with Parmesan

Name: Champagne Cream Pasta with Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup champagne; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Golden Meals

I absolutely love creating dishes that elevate everyday ingredients, and this Champagne Cream Pasta with Parmesan does just that! The combination of rich cream and sparkling champagne creates a luxurious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. As I prepared this dish for a special dinner, the aroma filled the kitchen, enticing everyone to come and join the feast. This recipe is simple yet sophisticated, perfect for those moments when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Delaney Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:41:36.856Z

When I first added champagne to pasta, I was curious about how the flavors would meld. The effervescence of the champagne combined with the creamy richness was a delightful surprise, transforming a simple pasta dish into something truly special. Using high-quality parmesan enhances the depth, making every bite a treat.

I also found that a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper not only adds a touch of warmth but also brings out the flavors. It's these little details that elevate the dish, and I promise it’ll become a regular on your dinner table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Luxurious, creamy sauce that feels indulgent
Effervescent twist with champagne that surprises the palate
Quick and easy to prepare for elegant evenings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Champagne Cream Pasta is undoubtedly the champagne. It adds a unique effervescence and depth to the dish, elevating the flavor profile beyond a typical cream sauce. While any dry champagne will work, I recommend choosing a good quality one since its taste directly influences the final dish. If you're seeking a substitute, a dry sparkling wine or prosecco can suffice, but avoid sweet options as they will alter the dish's balance.

Heavy cream is essential for achieving the rich and luscious texture that this sauce is known for. It creates a smooth and velvety consistency that beautifully clings to each strand of fettuccine. Substituting with a lighter cream or milk may result in a thinner sauce, so if you're looking for a lower-calorie version, consider using a mix of half-and-half with a touch of butter to mimic that creamy consistency.

Cooking Techniques for Success

When cooking the fettuccine, ensure the water is properly salted; it should taste reminiscent of the ocean. This step enhances the pasta's flavor before it even reaches the sauce. Cooking until just al dente is crucial since the pasta will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sauce, ensuring it remains perfectly tender yet not mushy.

As you prepare the sauce, keep an eye on the heat level. Sauté the garlic over medium heat until fragrant—this should take about one minute. If the heat is too high, the garlic can easily burn and develop a bitter taste. After adding the champagne, allow it to simmer, which helps concentrate its flavors. You want to cook it down until it reduces slightly; this usually takes around 2-3 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Champagne Cream Pasta:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup champagne
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

With these ingredients ready, you're just moments away from a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Champagne Cream Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the champagne and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Add the Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese while stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, use a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Champagne Cream Pasta!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce. Pair this dish with a light salad for a balanced meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Champagne Cream Pasta pairs exceptionally well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. The fresh greens can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta, while sourdough or homemade garlic bread can help scoop up any leftover creamy sauce. To finish the meal on a light note, consider serving a palate-cleansing sorbet or a fresh fruit salad for dessert.

For a more hearty meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms. These additions not only boost the dish's protein content but also complement the creamy sauce beautifully. They can be cooked alongside the garlic before adding the champagne for an extra depth of flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to serve this dish for guests but want to save time, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Cook the fettuccine and sauce separately, allowing the sauce to cool and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stove, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency before tossing it with the pasta.

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or pasta water, stirring frequently to ensure even heating and to restore the creaminess. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti or penne.

→ Is it necessary to use champagne?

While champagne adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with a dry white wine if desired.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat before adding the pasta.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A light green salad or garlic bread complements this dish wonderfully.