Some nights, all we want is a big bowl of comfort—and this Ultra Creamy Pasta with Preserved Shallots totally delivers. It’s cozy, rich, and full of flavor, yet still easy enough for a weekday meal. With caramelized shallots, sun-dried tomatoes, white wine, and a creamy Parmesan sauce, this dish checks all the boxes. Plus, it looks fancy without requiring any culinary gymnastics!
🧅 What Makes This Pasta Special?
Unlike basic cream sauces, this one starts with deeply roasted shallots. After a slow roast in olive oil, honey, and smoked paprika, they turn soft and sweet—almost like a jam. When blended into a creamy sauce with wine and broth, their flavor shines through and gives the pasta an incredible depth.
Not only that, but the sauce is velvety thanks to a touch of cream and a generous handful of Parmesan. It’s bold, yet balanced. Rich, but not overwhelming. It’s the kind of pasta you’ll want to make again and again.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Preserved Shallots:
- 120g shallots, peeled and halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Roast at 190°C (375°F) for 30 minutes, turning once halfway through.
For the Pasta:
- 350g pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli all work great)
For the Sauce:
- All the preserved shallots
- A handful of sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 glass white wine
- 1 glass broth (chicken or veggie)
- 35cl single cream
- 1 glass reserved pasta water
- 70g Parmesan, finely grated
- Fresh basil for garnish
👩‍🍳 How to Make It: Step-by-Step
1. Roast the Shallots
First, toss the shallots with olive oil, honey, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking tray and roast at 190°C for 30 minutes. Flip them once midway. The result? Tender, slightly sticky shallots with deep flavor.
2. Boil the Pasta
While the shallots roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente. Before draining, save a glass of that starchy cooking water—you’ll need it for the sauce.
3. Make the Sauce
In a deep skillet, add your roasted shallots and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir and cook over medium heat for a minute. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the alcohol evaporates. Add the broth and cream, stirring gently.
4. Simmer & Stir
Lower the heat and let the sauce bubble softly for 5–7 minutes. Add the pasta water a little at a time, stirring to emulsify the sauce. This helps it cling to the pasta like a creamy dream.
5. Add the Cheese & Pasta
Next, stir in the Parmesan until it melts into the sauce. Toss in your cooked pasta and stir well to coat every piece. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash more broth or pasta water.
6. Garnish and Serve
Plate the pasta, top with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil if you’d like. Now take a moment, breathe in that aroma, and dig in!
🌟 Optional Add-Ins to Try
Want to switch it up? Here are some ideas:
- Add spinach or kale for a bit of green
- Mix in crispy bacon or pancetta for extra savory flavor
- Toss in pine nuts or pistachios for crunch
- Finish with a dash of chili flakes for heat
🥗 What to Serve with Creamy Pasta
This rich dish pairs well with something light and crisp on the side:
- A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted asparagus or green beans
- A slice of sourdough or garlic bread to soak up the sauce
💡 Keira’s Kitchen Tips
- Use quality Parmesan. Pre-grated won’t melt as smoothly.
- Taste as you go. The sun-dried tomatoes and cheese add salt, so adjust your seasoning at the end.
- Cream too thick? A splash of pasta water can fix that instantly.
❤️ Why You’ll Make This Again and Again
This pasta isn’t just creamy—it’s unforgettable. The caramelized shallots give it a sweetness that balances the richness of the cream and cheese. Meanwhile, the sun-dried tomatoes add a pop of tang, and the basil brings everything together. Every bite is smooth, savory, and just a little indulgent.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, this dish will steal the show. It’s simple, elegant, and full of flavor.
đź“Ś Save This for Pasta Night!
Craving comfort food? Pin this recipe or bookmark it—you’ll want to keep it close! If you give it a try, tag me on Instagram @KeiraRecipes so I can swoon over your creamy creations. 💛