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: 400g fettuccine; Salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup champagne (or sparkling wine); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Planning

I absolutely love making Champagne Cream Pasta with Parmesan for special occasions or quiet dinners at home. The creamy sauce, infused with the bubbly and richness of champagne, elevates the traditional pasta dish into something truly indulgent. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how the simplest ingredients could create such an elegant flavor profile. With a touch of garlic and freshly grated Parmesan, each bite feels like a little celebration. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I'm excited to share it with you!

Created by

Jemima Fox

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:57:37.434Z

When I first experimented with this dish, I wasn’t sure how the bubbly champagne would blend with the creamy sauce. To my surprise, it created a light yet decadent flavor that perfectly complemented the pasta. The key was to sauté the garlic gently before adding the champagne, allowing the alcohol to evaporate slightly and leave behind a subtle sweetness.

I've learned that using freshly grated Parmesan makes a difference in texture and flavor, melting beautifully into the sauce. Top with a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh finish, and you'll impress anyone you serve!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful fusion of creamy and bubbly flavors
Elegant enough for special occasions yet easy for weeknights
Rich Parmesan adds depth to the sauce, making every bite satisfying

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a delightful Champagne Cream Pasta lies in high-quality ingredients. The fettuccine serves as a sturdy base, providing the perfect bite with its flat shape and width, allowing it to hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. The choice of champagne or sparkling wine is crucial; a dry variety will balance the richness of the cream and cheese without overwhelming the dish with sweetness. If you're looking for a substitution, a good Riesling or a dry Prosecco can also work, lending similar effervescence and flavor.

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is another star ingredient, bringing both creaminess and a savory depth to the sauce. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can interfere with the smooth texture you want in a creamy sauce. Trust me; taking a few extra minutes to grate your own cheese will make a noticeable difference!

Perfecting the Sauce

If there’s a critical tip for achieving the perfect sauce, it’s watching the heat during cooking. Start with medium heat to sauté the garlic; too high and it may burn, resulting in a bitter flavor. When adding the champagne, a gentle simmer allows for a slow reduction, which concentrates the flavors without risking a complete boil-over. You want to reduce for about 5 minutes, ensuring it thickens slightly but still retains its bubbly characteristics.

After incorporating the heavy cream, allow it to simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This ensures its creaminess without curdling the cream. If the sauce is thicker than you’d like after adding the Parmesan, don’t hesitate to add reserved pasta water in small increments until it's just right.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta

400g fettuccine
Salt

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup champagne (or sparkling wine)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to use high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor!

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Carefully pour in the champagne and allow it to simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.

Combine Ingredients

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes until it thickens. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Toss the Pasta

Add the drained fettuccine to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your elegant Champagne Cream Pasta with a glass of extra champagne on the side!

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try incorporating sautéed mushrooms or cooked shrimp into the sauce for extra richness.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Champagne Cream Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make components ahead of time. The sauce can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just ensure to cover it tightly to maintain its flavor. When ready to serve, reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water as necessary to restore its silky texture.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheating in a pan with a touch of olive oil or butter can help revive the creamy texture. However, be warned that pasta dishes with cream can thicken upon cooling, so it's best enjoyed right away!

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant dining experience, serve your Champagne Cream Pasta alongside a fresh garden salad dressed simply with olive oil and lemon. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta. You might also include some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Pairing the dish with the same champagne used in the recipe can elevate the meal. Choose a crisp, dry champagne that complements the fluidity of the cream sauce without overpowering it. A few shavings of truffle on top of each serving can also introduce an extravagant touch, making this dish feel truly special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular white wine instead of champagne?

Yes, regular white wine will work, but the flavor may be slightly different. Choose a dry white wine for the best result.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh due to the creamy nature of the sauce. If you must make it ahead, reheat gently to avoid separation.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just ensure that the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly and consider adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine is great for this sauce, but you can use any pasta of your choice like tagliatelle or penne.