A gentle aroma of basil and garlic fills the kitchen as this One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta simmers on the stove. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish combines creamy goodness with fresh ingredients, making it a delightful weeknight meal the whole family will enjoy.
Perfect for busy individuals or families looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe can easily be prepped ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Enjoy it any night of the week or serve as a comforting meal after a long day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pot recipe, making cleanup a breeze.
- The creamy sauce clings perfectly to each pasta piece for ultimate flavor.
- It includes vibrant ingredients like fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes.
- Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to make your One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta:
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta, like penne or fusilli
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
For the Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach
For Serving
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (optional)
Use store-bought or homemade pesto.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Swap pasta for gluten-free options.
- Use canned coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
- Replace cherry tomatoes with diced bell peppers.
- Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan option.
How to Make It
Create a delicious meal in just a few steps.
Boil ingredients
In a large pot, combine the pasta, vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Simmer until done
Reduce heat to a simmer and let cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has thickened (about 10-12 minutes).
Mix in add-ins
Stir in the pesto, cherry tomatoes, and spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
Combine and season
Remove from heat, stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve warm
Serve warm, drizzled with olive oil if desired.
How to Store It
Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, the sauce will separate.
Reheat: microwave or stovetop for 2-3 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Stir the pasta frequently to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the pesto amount based on your flavor preference.
- For extra creaminess, add more heavy cream after cooking.
- Incorporate cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve as a comfort dish during family gatherings.
- Enjoy with garlic bread for a cozy, delicious meal.
