Creamy Pesto Pasta

This creamy pesto pasta combines the freshness of basil with a luscious, velvety sauce that coats every strand of pasta. It is a comforting yet vibrant dish that can be made quickly, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a delightful fusion of classic Italian pesto and a rich, creamy sauce. It offers a perfect balance between herby freshness and indulgent creaminess. You will love how easily it comes together in just one pot and how adaptable it is to your personal taste preferences. It is also an excellent way to elevate a simple pasta meal into something restaurant-worthy.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta of your choice

• Fresh basil leaves

• Garlic cloves

• Pine nuts or walnuts

• Parmesan cheese, grated

• Heavy cream

• Olive oil

• Salt

• Black pepper

directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.

2. In a blender or food processor, combine basil leaves, garlic, nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil. Blend until smooth to form the pesto.

3. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the heavy cream and gently warm it without boiling.

4. Stir in the prepared pesto until fully combined with the cream.

5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the creamy pesto sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for a silkier consistency.

6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Use spinach or arugula along with basil for a different flavor profile.

• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for added protein and variety.

• Swap pine nuts for almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds for a budget-friendly twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving on high to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Replace heavy cream with a plant-based cream and use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works well, but fresh homemade pesto provides a brighter, fresher taste.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne or fusilli holds the sauce well, but spaghetti or linguine also work beautifully.

Can I freeze creamy pesto pasta?

It is not recommended to freeze the prepared dish as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pesto cream sauce and refrigerate it for up to 2 days, then reheat before tossing with pasta.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes or add more Parmesan cheese until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Is it possible to make it lighter?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.

What can I use instead of nuts in pesto?

You can replace nuts with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or omit them entirely.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Absolutely. Roasted cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or peas make excellent additions.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Avoid boiling the cream and always stir gently over medium-low heat.

Conclusion

Creamy pesto pasta is a quick, versatile, and delicious meal that blends the best of fresh herbs with a luxurious sauce. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for busy evenings or a refined dinner at home, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite

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