Easy Creamy Pesto Pasta - Food & Drinks

If you’re looking for a dish that delivers on both flavor and simplicity, look no further than creamy pesto pasta.

This comforting, herb-packed meal combines the richness of a velvety cream sauce with the vibrant taste of fresh basil pesto.

Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Pesto Pasta

Pesto on its own is a delicious sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. But when you add a touch of cream, magic happens.

The result is a smooth, luxurious sauce that coats your pasta beautifully, offering a delightful balance of earthy, nutty, and cheesy notes with a mellow creamy finish.

Here’s what makes this dish a favorite:

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
Customizable: Add chicken, shrimp, or veggies for extra flavor and nutrition.
Comforting yet fresh: Creamy, yet bursting with herbaceous brightness.
Family-friendly: Even picky eaters enjoy the mild, rich flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make creamy pesto pasta, you only need a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients:

12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, spinach, or mushrooms

How to Make Creamy Pesto Pasta

Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Add cream and pesto
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently, then add the pesto. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and begins to bubble. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add cheese and pasta
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss until evenly coated. Use reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 5: Season and serve
Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Variations to Try

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta: Add grilled or sautéed chicken breast slices for a protein boost.
Shrimp Pesto Pasta: Sauté shrimp in garlic butter and toss into the pasta for a seafood twist.
Veggie Pesto Pasta: Add sautéed zucchini, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for color and nutrients.
Pesto Alfredo Fusion: Use equal parts pesto and Alfredo sauce for an ultra-creamy result.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Creamy pesto pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs About Creamy Pesto Pasta

1. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free pesto and substitute the cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative.

2. What’s the best pasta type for this dish?
Penne, fettuccine, linguine, or fusilli all work well as they hold the creamy sauce beautifully.

3. Can I freeze creamy pesto pasta?
Freezing is not recommended, as cream-based sauces tend to separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days.

4. Is store-bought pesto okay?
Absolutely! For convenience, store-bought pesto works great. But if you have fresh basil, homemade pesto elevates the dish.