introduction
Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a delicious and simple dish that brings fresh flavors together in one pot. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a special gathering. This one-pot meal is creamy, flavorful, and a great way to enjoy pasta with a twist.
why make this recipe
Making Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a great choice for many reasons. First, it is quick and easy. You can have a meal ready in about 30 minutes. Second, it uses simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Third, the creamy pesto sauce gives the dish a rich flavor that everyone will love. Plus, you can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins.
how to make Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
Ingredients:
- 300 g penne pasta (cooked al dente)
- 2 tsp salt (divided)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 1 red onion (diced)
- 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
- Freshly chopped parsley (a handful)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Grated Parmesan for topping (optional)
Directions:
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper and red onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are soft.
Prepare the Pesto Sauce: Stir in the pesto sauce and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to blend.
Create the Creamy Base: In a bowl, mix the heavy cream and all-purpose flour until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Season the Sauce: Add garlic powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and one teaspoon of salt. Mix everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes, thickening the sauce.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the pot. Stir well to coat the pasta with the creamy pesto sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Serve: Once mixed and heated through, it is ready to serve. Top with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.
how to serve Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
Serve Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta hot, directly from the pot or in a large serving bowl. Garnish with extra parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
To store leftover Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. When you are ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream if it looks dry.
tips to make Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
- Cook the pasta al dente to avoid it becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust the amount of pesto used based on your taste preference.
- For extra flavor, try adding different vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.
- If you want some protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish.
variation
You can make this dish vegetarian by omitting any meat. You can also go gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half and half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy sauce and sauté the vegetables ahead of time. Just keep them separate from the pasta until you’re ready to serve.
2. How can I make it dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cream alternative in place of the heavy cream and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese.
3. What can I add to this pasta for more protein?
You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for extra protein. Cook them separately and mix them in before serving.
Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe)
Equipment
- large pot
- wooden spoon
Ingredients
Pasta
- 300 g short pasta such as rigatoni, penne, or fusilli
Sauce
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 100 g pesto sauce store-bought or homemade
- 50 g Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 250 ml vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
Instructions
Cooking
- Combine pasta, heavy cream, pesto, minced garlic, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper in a large pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and sauce thickens.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
Serving
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and halved cherry tomatoes.