Description
Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a quick and comforting one-pot recipe that combines tender pasta with a rich, creamy basil pesto sauce. It’s perfect for weeknights and can be customized with veggies or protein.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz pasta of choice (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional or vegan alternative)
- 1 3/4 cups vegetable broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large deep skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add uncooked pasta and pour in vegetable broth. Stir and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in pesto, cream, and Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm.
Notes
- Add sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
- To make it vegan, use coconut cream and vegan cheese alternatives.
- This dish reheats well and is great for meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg