
SPICY CARAMELIZED SHALLOT PASTA WITH MUSHROOM
If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, you’ve come to the right place! My Spicy Caramelized Shallot Pasta with Mushrooms is a flavor-packed dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized shallots, the umami richness of mushrooms, and a hint of chili heat.
This pasta recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also easy to make, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The harmony of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors in this dish is sure to make it a favorite in your household!

MAIN INGREDIENTS FOR SPICY CARAMELIZED SHALLOT PASTA WITH MUSHROOM
Pasta – I’m using Pappardelle for this recipe, but feel free to choose your favorite type of pasta! The pasta acts as the base, soaking up the rich flavors of the caramelized shallots and mushrooms. For the best results, cook the pasta al dente, following the package instructions, and reserve a bit of the pasta water to help emulsify the sauce and ensure it clings perfectly to each strand or piece.
Shallots – These small, sweet onions are key to the dish’s depth of flavor. When caramelized, they add a wonderful sweetness and a rich, savory note that perfectly complements the other ingredients. Slice them thinly to ensure even caramelization, and cook them slowly over low heat to draw out their natural sugars, resulting in a beautifully golden and flavorful base for your sauce.
Baby Bella Mushrooms – Also known as cremini mushrooms, these add a meaty texture and an earthy, umami flavor to the pasta. They pair beautifully with the caramelized shallots and add substance to the dish. Slice them evenly and sauté until they release their moisture and develop a deep, brown color, enhancing their natural umami characteristics.
Anchovy Fillets – These may seem like a surprising addition, but anchovies dissolve into the sauce, adding a subtle umami depth and a savory richness without a fishy taste. They elevate the overall flavor profile of the dish. Use high-quality anchovy fillets packed in oil, and let them melt into the shallots and mushrooms to infuse the sauce with a complex, savory undertone.
Tomato Paste – This concentrated tomato product adds a robust, tangy flavor and deepens the color of the sauce. It provides a slight acidity that balances the sweetness of the caramelized shallots. Stir it into the pan and cook briefly to caramelize the paste, which enhances its natural sweetness and intensifies the overall flavor of the dish.
Milk – Used to create a creamy texture and to mellow out the strong flavors of the anchovies and tomato paste. It helps in achieving a smooth and cohesive sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. Opt for whole milk for a richer sauce, or use a dairy alternative like almond or oat milk if you prefer a non-dairy version. The milk also helps to balance the spiciness and adds a subtle creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.
Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish to the dish. It enhances the overall flavor and provides a creamy, umami-packed topping that makes each bite irresistible. Use high-quality Parmesan and grate it just before serving for the best flavor and texture. A generous sprinkle over the finished pasta, along with a little extra at the table, ensures a perfect balance of flavors in every bite.

COOKING INSTRUCTIONS FOR SPICY CARAMELIZED SHALLOT PASTA WITH MUSHROOM
Cook the Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain the pasta and reserve some pasta water for later.
Caramelize the Shallots
- While the pasta is cooking, sauté sliced shallots and garlic in a non-stick pan over low-medium heat. Cook for 6-7 minutes until they are soft and slightly browned.
Continue Making the Sauce
- Add anchovy fillets and mushrooms to the pan, stir-fry to a couple of minutes until the mushroom slices have become soft.
- Add tomato paste and all the seasonings. Stir and cook until everything is well combined.
Combine Everything
- Stir in cooked pasta, then pour in the milk and pasta water. Cook until it becomes creamy and the pasta is all covered with the sauce.
Plate the Pasta
- Plate the pasta. Garnish with some chopped parsley and a generous amount of freshly grated parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy!


Spicy Caramelized Shallot Pasta with mushroom
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tsp oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 200 g pasta of your choice - I'm using Pappardelle
- 6 shallots - thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups sliced baby bella mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic - minced or sliced
- 2 oz can Anchovy fillets - chopped
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese - freshly grated
- Chopped parsley - for garnish
Seasonings:
- 2-3 tsp Calabrian chilli / chili flakes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain the cooked pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In the meantime, heat oil and butter in a non-stick pan over low-medium heat. Add sliced shallots and garlic, sauté for 6-7 minutes until the shallots become soft and slightly browned.
- Add anchovy fillets and mushrooms, stir-fry for about 2 minutes until the mushroom slices become soft.
- Add tomato paste and all the seasonings. Stir and cook until everything is well combined.
- Stir in cooked pasta, then pour in the milk and pasta water. Cook until it becomes creamy and the pasta is all covered with the sauce.
- Plate the pasta. Garnish with some chopped parsley and a generous amount of freshly grated parmesan cheese on top.
- Serve warm and enjoy!