If you’re craving something rich, flavorful, and quick to whip up, this Creamy Pesto Pasta is your new go-to comfort dish. It blends the vibrant flavors of fresh basil pesto with a velvety cream sauce, coating each pasta strand in pure deliciousness. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just indulging in a cozy dinner for one, this recipe will make your taste buds dance.
Table of Contents
🥄 Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Pasta
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect balance of creamy and herby flavors
- Easily customizable with chicken, shrimp, or veggies
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Comforting and restaurant-quality at home
🍃 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this creamy dream to life:
Main Ingredients:
- Pasta – 12 oz (penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or your favorite)
- Pesto sauce – ½ cup (homemade or store-bought)
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Salt & black pepper – to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms
- Cherry tomatoes or spinach for a pop of color
- Crushed red pepper for heat
🍳 How to Make Creamy Pesto Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Step 3: Add Cream & Pesto
Pour in the heavy cream and pesto sauce. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Toss the Pasta
Add cooked pasta into the sauce. Mix well until every piece is coated. Use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Step 6: Taste and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, topped with extra cheese or fresh basil if desired.
🧀 Chef’s Tips & Variations
✅ Make It Lighter
Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
✅ Add Protein
Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp go beautifully with this sauce.
✅ Go Veggie
Toss in roasted cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
✅ Store It Right
Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream.
📊 Nutrition & Calories
Here’s a basic estimate of the nutritional values per serving (based on 4 servings total):
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 530 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 47g |
| Protein | 13g |
| Fat | 34g |
| Saturated Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
⚠️ Note: Values may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used.
🌟 What to Serve with Creamy Pesto Pasta
Pair your dish with these simple sides for a full meal:
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini
📌 Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe is the perfect blend of rich, satisfying, and soul-warming. Whether it’s a lazy weeknight or a dinner party, this dish brings gourmet flavors to your table without the fuss.
So go ahead—twirl that fork, take a bite, and let the creamy, garlicky, herby goodness speak for itself.
💬 Have you tried this recipe?
Let us know in the comments or share your twist on this classic! Don’t forget to pin it and save it for later.
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