Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a delightful dish that checks all the boxes for a busy weeknight dinner. It’s creamy, flavorful, and so easy to whip up in just one pot. The combination of fresh pesto and tender pasta creates a cozy meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Why You Will Love This Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal. It takes minimal prep and uses everyday ingredients. Plus, it’s family-friendly! The creamy texture paired with the vibrant flavor of pesto makes it a hit with both kids and adults. You can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
How to Make Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
Cooking this dish is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You will sauté some vegetables, create a creamy pesto sauce, and combine everything in one pot. It’s a simple method that makes weeknight cooking a breeze.
What You Need
Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
- 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)
Step-by-Step
How to Cook Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
Sauté the Vegetables: Start by heating a pot over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper and red onion. Sauté until they are soft and slightly golden.
Prepare the Pesto Sauce: Stir in the pesto sauce, mixing it well with the vegetables.
Create the Creamy Base: In a separate bowl, whisk the heavy cream with flour, garlic powder, and oregano. Pour this into the pot, along with reserved pasta water. Stir to combine.
Season the Sauce: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Let it simmer gently until it thickens a little.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the pot, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated in sauce.
Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
How to Serve Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
This dish is fantastic on its own but can be paired beautifully with garlic bread or a simple green salad. For added flavor, consider topping with extra Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice. It’s great for family dinners or casual gatherings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
How to Store Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Allow the pasta to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze leftovers too. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for about a month.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw if frozen, and warm in a pot over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Recipe Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your pesto and vegetables, the better the flavor.
- Watch the Pasta: Cook the penne just until al dente, as it will continue to soften in the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the salt and pepper to match your taste!
- Leftover Pesto: If you have extra pesto, blend it into the cream for a richer flavor.
- Try Different Veggies: Feel free to swap in other vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.
Variations & Swaps
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with chickpeas or lentils for a hearty vegetarian meal.
- Lower Calorie: Use light cream or a milk alternative for a lighter version of the sauce.
- Extra Greens: Stir in fresh spinach just before serving for added nutrition.
- Nut-Free: If nuts are a concern, opt for a nut-free pesto version or make your own!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead. Just cook the pasta and sauce, then store them separately until you’re ready to serve. Combine and reheat just before eating.
Can I freeze leftover pasta?
Sure! Just make sure it’s in a freezer-friendly container. However, the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
How do I reheat pasta?
For best results, use a pot on the stovetop. Add a little cream or pasta water to help loosen the sauce while reheating gently.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta you prefer, along with any vegetables you have on hand. For the cream, a milk alternative can work too.
What should I serve with this dish?
This pasta pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 300 g penne pasta (cooked al dente)
- 2 tsp salt (divided)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 1 red onion (diced)
Creamy Pesto Sauce
- 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
- 1 tsp black pepper
Garnish
- 1 handful freshly chopped parsley
- Grated Parmesan for topping (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a pot over medium heat and add the diced green bell pepper and red onion. Sauté until they are soft and slightly golden.
- Stir in the pesto sauce, mixing it well with the vegetables.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the heavy cream with flour, garlic powder, and oregano. Pour this into the pot, along with reserved pasta water. Stir to combine.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste. Let it simmer gently until it thickens a little.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the pot, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated in sauce.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
