Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a delightful dish that evokes comforting memories with every bite. This one-pot recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes and is perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy, rich texture paired with the fresh flavors of pesto makes it an instant family favorite.
This recipe is for anyone looking for a quick, delicious meal that pleases both kids and adults. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners or when entertaining friends. For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the creamy base in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to add the pasta.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Enjoy a rich, creamy texture that coats every piece of pasta.
- Prepare this dish in just one pot for easy cleanup.
- Infuse your pasta with vibrant veggies for added nutrition.
- Customize the flavor with your preferred pesto type.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create a sumptuous Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta.
For the Pasta
- 300 g penne pasta, cooked al dente
- 2 tsp salt, divided
For the Vegetables
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, diced
For the Sauce
- 6 tbsp pesto sauce
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 2 cups heavy cream (35%)
- 1 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Freshly chopped parsley, a handful
For Serving
- Grated Parmesan for topping (optional)
Pesto sauce can be homemade or store-bought.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use whole wheat penne for a healthier option.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Try different vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.
- Substitute garlic powder with fresh garlic, minced.
How to Make It
This simple recipe will delight your palate with its creamy goodness.
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper and red onion, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Prepare the Pesto Sauce
Stir in the 6 tablespoons of pesto sauce until combined with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for another minute to release the flavors.
3. Create the Creamy Base
Whisk together the heavy cream, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, and black pepper in a separate bowl. Pour this mixture into the pot, stirring well to combine.
4. Season the Sauce
Add in the reserved pasta water and dried oregano, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly. This should take about 5 minutes on low heat.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Fold the cooked penne pasta into the sauce, mixing well to coat the pasta evenly. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes for better flavor absorption.
6. Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot for a delightful dining experience.
How to Store It
Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, the cream may separate upon thawing.
Reheat: gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring for about 5-7 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Cook the pasta al dente for optimal texture in the sauce.
- Add more reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
- Incorporate other vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Serve alongside garlic bread for a classic touch.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a perfect dinner pairing.
