Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is the ultimate one-pot wonder—rich, vibrant, and packed with flavor, yet incredibly simple to make. This dish combines fragrant basil pesto with a luscious, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to your favorite pasta. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy dinners, or when you want something satisfying in under 30 minutes.

ingredients

Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe) 10 Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is the ultimate one-pot wonder—rich, vibrant, and packed with flavor, yet incredibly simple to make. This dish combines fragrant basil pesto with a luscious, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to your favorite pasta. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy dinners, or when you want something satisfying in under 30 minutes.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pasta of choice (penne, fusilli, spaghetti, etc.)olive oilgarlic cloves (minced)vegetable or chicken brothbasil pestocheavy cream or coconut milkparmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)saltblack peppercherry tomatoes or spinach (optional)add-ins)fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

directions

In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in broth and bring to a gentle boil.

Add pasta and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed (follow package cooking time).

Lower heat and stir in pesto, cream, and parmesan cheese. Mix until sauce is smooth and coats the pasta.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Optional: stir in cherry tomatoes, spinach, or your favorite veggies and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened.

Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes to thicken.

Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use gluten-free pasta or legume-based pasta for dietary needs.

Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for protein.

Make it vegan with coconut milk and vegan pesto and cheese.

Add lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Top with toasted pine nuts or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.Not recommended for freezing due to the dairy content.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, just choose a good-quality one or make your own for fresher flavor.

What cream works best?

Heavy cream gives the richest texture, but half-and-half or coconut milk are great too.

Is it really a one-pot recipe?

Yes—everything cooks in one pot including the pasta, which absorbs flavor from the broth.

Can I add protein?

Absolutely—grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas work great.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s creamy and mild with a familiar pesto flavor kids often love.

Can I use dairy-free alternatives?

Yes, coconut milk and nutritional yeast make it creamy and flavorful without dairy.

How do I prevent the sauce from drying out?

Serve immediately, and when reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your pot is large enough and adjust cooking time slightly.

What pasta shape is best?

Short shapes like penne or fusilli hold the creamy sauce well, but any pasta works.

Do I need to cook the pasta separately?

Nope—it cooks right in the broth, saving time and dishes.

Conclusion

Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a flavorful, no-fuss meal that comes together in one pot for a dinner win every time. With its velvety sauce, herbaceous pesto, and tender pasta, it delivers restaurant-level comfort at home—fast. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this recipe is a keeper you’ll come back to again and again.