Creamy Pesto Pasta
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Craving creamy comfort food that’s actually easy? This Creamy Pesto Pasta is your new best friend. It’s got that rich pesto flavor we all love, but with a smooth, cheesy sauce that takes it over the top. Ready in under 30 minutes with just a few ingredients, it’s perfect for weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Pesto Pasta
- Weeknight Win: This Creamy Pesto Pasta is my go-to for busy nights. It’s crazy easy – just a few steps and bam! Dinner’s on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Delicious Flavor: The creamy sauce and that amazing pesto flavor come together like a match made in heaven. Every bite is delicious!
- Your Way, Every Day: Use whatever pasta you like – shells, spirals, the choice is yours! Plus, feel free to add your favorite veggies or protein for a customized creation.
- Meal Prep Magic: Make a big batch on Sunday and you’ve got yummy lunches or dinners all week long. No more scrambling after work!
- Veggie Power: This pasta is perfect for vegetarians too! It’s packed with flavor and protein, so you won’t miss the meat at all.
Ingredients Needed To Make Creamy Pesto Pasta
- Pasta (your favorite shape, such as shells or fusilli)
- Pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese, shredded
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
How To Make Creamy Pesto Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot over medium-low heat, add the heavy cream, shredded Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and pesto sauce.
- Stir well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pot with the creamy pesto sauce.
- Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve the Creamy Pesto Pasta hot.
- Optionally, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
- Enjoy!
Variations & Substitutions
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra protein boost.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly for this recipe. If you prefer homemade, you can try our recipe here.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Creamy Pesto Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened.
Can I freeze Creamy Pesto Pasta?
While pasta dishes can be frozen, the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon reheating. For best results, consume within a few days of making.
What pasta shape is best for this recipe?
You can use any pasta shape you like, but shells, fusilli, or penne are great options because they hold the sauce well.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu make excellent additions to this creamy pasta dish.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese.
What can I serve with Creamy Pesto Pasta?
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Creamy Pesto Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 12 oz box pasta your favorite shape, such as shells or fusilli
- 8 oz pesto sauce store-bought or homemade
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 8 oz Parmesan cheese shredded
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Making the Creamy Pesto Sauce
- In a large pot over medium-low heat, add the heavy cream, shredded Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and pesto sauce.
- Stir well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the pot with the creamy pesto sauce.
- Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Serving
- Serve the Creamy Pesto Pasta hot.
- Optionally, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition
Shop This Recipe
Get everything you need to make this recipe exactly how we do!
This dish is like a hug in a bowl – rich pesto flavor, smooth and cheesy sauce, and it all comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those crazy weeknights, feeding the fam, or meal prepping for the week. Use your favorite pasta shape, throw in some veggies, or even add some grilled chicken. This recipe is a winner no matter how you spin it.
