Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort dish that comes together in a flash but still tastes like a restaurant treat, look no further than Creamy Pesto Pasta. This irresistibly rich pasta pairs aromatic basil pesto with silky cream and tender penne, bringing big Italian flavors right to your kitchen table. Whether you’re hosting friends, treating your family, or just cooking a delicious solo meal, this recipe is sure to earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Pesto Pasta is in its short and sweet ingredient list. Each component has a unique role: creamy dairy for luscious sauce, fragrant pesto as the flavor hero, and penne for the perfect bite. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

• 400 g penne pasta: Penne’s tube shape traps creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and texture. Feel free to swap for rigatoni or fusilli if you prefer!
• 2 tsp olive oil: This forms the base for gently frying your garlic and adds subtle fruitiness to the sauce.
• 2 garlic cloves (crushed): Fresh garlic brings aromatic depth (but don’t brown it—just a gentle sauté is enough).
• 1 cup thickened cream (heavy cream): The secret to achieving that dreamy, silky sauce that coats every piece of pasta.
• ½ cup milk: Lightens the cream just slightly, ensuring the sauce isn’t too heavy but still wonderfully rich.
• 4 tbsp basil pesto: Store-bought or homemade, this little jar is bursting with basil flavor and a hit of Parmesan and pine nuts.
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: A splash of lemon wakes up the whole dish and balances the creamy sauce.
• ¼ tsp cooking salt: Rounds out all the flavors—taste before adding more, since pesto can be salty.
• Fresh basil leaves (optional garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh aroma when sprinkled on top.
• Grated parmesan cheese (optional garnish): For cheese lovers, a generous dusting takes this pasta to another level.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your penne and cook according to the package instructions—usually 10 to 12 minutes for that perfect al dente texture. Remember, slightly undercooking is better than overdoing it since the pasta will soak up more flavor in the sauce later. Once the penne is cooked, drain it well and set it aside while you turn your attention to the luscious sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta bubbles away, grab a large pan and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic and fry gently for just 30 seconds. You want to unlock its aroma without browning—it should smell fragrant, not burnt. This step sets the foundation of flavor for the entire Creamy Pesto Pasta dish.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Base

Pour in the thickened cream and milk, stirring to combine with the garlic-infused oil. This is where your sauce starts to take shape. The cream creates a plush, velvety backdrop that’s just waiting for the punchy pop of pesto in the next step. Keep the heat gentle so the dairy doesn’t scorch.

Step 4: Add Pesto, Lemon Juice, and Salt

Stir in the basil pesto, squeeze in the fresh lemon juice, and add the salt. Mix thoroughly so the pesto melts beautifully into the creamy base, tinting it a gorgeous pale green and filling your kitchen with basil’s herby scent. This combination is what transforms a simple cream sauce into the vibrant centerpiece of your Creamy Pesto Pasta.

Step 5: Let It Simmer

Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer (not a rapid boil), ensuring everything melds together and the sauce thickens ever so slightly. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on the pan—just a few minutes is all it takes to reach that ideal, pourable consistency.

Step 6: Toss with Pasta

Finally, add your well-drained penne directly into the simmering pesto sauce. Toss everything together until each piece of pasta is cloaked in creamy, aromatic goodness. Serve straight away, and don’t forget those optional but highly recommended toppings!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Pasta

Garnishes

For a truly irresistible finish, shower your Creamy Pesto Pasta with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a scattering of fresh basil leaves. The cheese adds a salty, nutty accent, while basil brings a bright, verdant pop. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a twist of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil never hurts!

Side Dishes

This dish is a dream as a main, but why not round out the meal? Pair your Creamy Pesto Pasta with a crisp green salad topped with cherry tomatoes, or serve alongside a warm, crusty baguette to soak up every bit of sauce. For a more substantial dinner, roasted vegetables or grilled chicken make perfect companions.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, try serving individual portions of Creamy Pesto Pasta in shallow bowls and top with extra garnishes. For family-style fun, pile the whole lot onto a large serving platter and let everyone dive in. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts on top adds delightful crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Creamy Pesto Pasta (which isn’t likely!), store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce might thicken as it chills, but it will be just as flavorful when reheated. Be sure to let the pasta cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

While cream-based sauces can sometimes separate after freezing, you can freeze Creamy Pesto Pasta if needed. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, and expect the consistency to change slightly.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Creamy Pesto Pasta gently in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. The microwave also works—just use medium power and stir halfway through to ensure even warming.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pesto instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto brings vibrant, fresh basil flavor to this dish. If you have a favorite recipe (or extra basil in the garden), feel free to use that instead. Just be aware of salt levels, as homemade pestos can vary.

Is there a good substitute for thickened cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can swap in half-and-half or even use more milk with a teaspoon of flour for thickening. The result will be slightly less rich but still delicious.

Can I make Creamy Pesto Pasta gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta in place of regular penne. The creamy sauce and pesto work beautifully on all kinds of gluten-free shapes.

What protein can I add to make it a heartier meal?

Grilled or shredded chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even cooked Italian sausage all pair wonderfully with Creamy Pesto Pasta. Toss the protein in with the pasta at the last step to heat through.

How can I make Creamy Pesto Pasta vegan?

Use your favorite dairy-free cream and milk, along with a vegan pesto (check for cheese in the ingredient list), and skip or substitute the parmesan with nutritional yeast. You’ll still get that irresistible basil and creamy vibe!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to bring this Creamy Pesto Pasta to your table! It’s a recipe that never fails to impress yet is totally doable, even on your busiest days. Give it a try, add your own twist, and enjoy every forkful of that vibrant, comforting flavor.

Print