Name: Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 300 g 300 g penne pasta (cooked al dente); 2 tsp 2 tsp salt (divided); 1 unit 1 green bell pepper (diced); 1 unit 1 red onion (diced); 6 tbsp 6 tbsp pesto sauce; 1/2 cup 1/2 cup reserved pasta water; 2 cups 2 cups heavy cream ((35%)); 1 1/2 tbsp 1 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp 1 tbsp dried oregano; 1 tsp 1 tsp black pepper; 1 handful Freshly chopped parsley; 1 cup Grated Parmesan for topping (optional)

Cooking is often about more than just nourishment; it’s a way to connect, to create, and sometimes to find solace in the chaos of everyday life. When I stumbled upon the recipe for creamy pesto sauce pasta, it felt like a gentle reminder of those cherished family dinners, where laughter and stories bubbled just as warmly as the sauce. This dish is a harmonious blend of vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and delightful aromas that’ll make anyone who takes a bite feel right at home. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, it’s that kind of meal that wraps you in a comforting embrace.

Why you’ll love this dish

This recipe stands out not just for its richness but for its sheer simplicity. In around 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that caters to appetites of all ages. The beauty of creamy pesto pasta lies in its versatility: it’s easy to personalize by adding veggies or proteins, making it a great option for those vegetarian nights or when you want to clean out the fridge. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly dish; many ingredients are pantry staples, which means you can indulge without feeling the pinch.

"This creamy pesto pasta was an instant hit! It was quick to prepare and the kids couldn’t get enough of it. A new family favorite!"

How this recipe comes together

Now, let’s break down how to bring this creamy goodness to life in your kitchen. This dish is assembled in one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to savor the meal. You’ll start by sautéing fresh vegetables to build flavor. Then, you’ll mix in a delightful pesto sauce with heavy cream to create a rich, comforting base. Finally, toss everything together with your cooked penne pasta, and voilà—dinner is served!

Gather these items

Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy delight:

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)

Feel free to swap the penne for your favorite pasta shape and adjust any veggie to fit your taste.

Directions to follow

Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Toss in the diced bell pepper and red onion. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Prepare the Pesto Sauce: Add the pesto sauce directly to your sautéed vegetables, stirring to coat them well in this flavorful goodness.
Create the Creamy Base: In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, flour, garlic powder, and oregano. Gradually pour this mixture into the pot, stirring continuously to achieve a creamy consistency as it warms up.
Season the Sauce: Add the remaining salt, black pepper, and a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed. It should be thick, luscious, and full of flavor.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Gently fold your cooked penne into the creamy sauce. Ensure each piece is lovingly coated! If the sauce appears too thick, gradually incorporate more pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and, if you’re feeling indulgent, a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan.

Best ways to enjoy it

This creamy pesto pasta shines on its own, but there are plenty of sides you can pair it with to elevate the meal. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the rich pasta. Freshly baked garlic bread is also a delightful accompaniment—who can resist that buttery, garlicky goodness as you soak up any leftover sauce? And don’t forget a glass of crisp white wine, which complements the dish beautifully.

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you find yourself with leftovers (a rarity in my house!), you’ll want to store them properly. Keep your creamy pesto pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to revive its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it can lead to a sad, dried-out version of the pasta.

Helpful cooking tips

Perfecting the Pasta: Always cook your pasta a minute or two less than the package instructions; it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped herbs can elevate the dish, so don’t shy away from adding a sprinkle of basil or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Pasta Water is Liquid Gold: Never underestimate the power of that starchy pasta water. It helps to emulsify the sauce, creating a creamy texture that clings beautifully to your noodles.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ways to switch things up with this recipe:

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish or toss in cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use Greek yogurt (just remember to temper it to avoid curdling).
Extra Veggies: Consider tossing in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even broccoli! They not only add color but great nutrients to the meal.

Your questions answered

What’s the prep time for this recipe?

You’re looking at about 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking—perfect for a swift weeknight dinner!

Can I freeze creamy pesto pasta?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Just be aware that the cream may change texture slightly upon thawing. Store in an airtight container for up to a month.

What can I use if I don’t have pesto?

You can make a quick basil sauce using fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and pine nuts in a blender. Alternatively, store-bought salsa verde is a zesty option too!

Cooking is about exploration, joy, and sometimes a little bit of mess. Embracing the process makes this creamy pesto pasta so much more than just a meal. It’s a lovely way to gather around the table, share stories, and indulge in delightful flavors that truly nourish. Give it a try; you might just find it becomes a cherished part of your cooking repertoire!