Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe)

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that’s quick to make and tastes like a hug in a bowl, then you’re in for a treat! My Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe) is the perfect blend of creamy goodness and vibrant flavors. This recipe has become one of my go-to meals, especially on those busy weeknights when time is tight but comfort food cravings are strong.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or just whipping up something simple for yourself, this pasta satisfies every time. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of heavy cream and pesto creates a rich sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with this delicious pasta dish.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this creamy delight is part of the fun! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you need for my Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta.

For the Pasta

• 300 g penne pasta (cooked al dente)
• 2 tsp salt (divided)

For the Sauce

• 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)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
• Change the pasta shape: While penne works beautifully, feel free to use any pasta shape you love—fusilli or farfalle would be great choices!
• Boost the protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it heartier.
• Make it lighter: Swap out heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream if you’re looking for a lighter version.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your penne pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Adding two teaspoons of salt to the boiling water enhances the flavor of the pasta itself. Once cooked, save half a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add diced green bell pepper and red onion. Sauté them over medium heat until they become tender and fragrant. This step not only adds flavor but also makes sure your veggies are perfectly cooked.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Now comes the magic! Stir in six tablespoons of pesto sauce along with two cups of heavy cream. Sprinkle in one and a half tablespoons of all-purpose flour, garlic powder, dried oregano, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth—this will create that luscious creamy texture we all crave!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add your cooked penne back into the pot with the creamy sauce. Pour in that reserved pasta water bit by bit until you reach your desired consistency. Mixing everything together ensures each bite is coated in that delicious pesto cream.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything is heated through, give it a taste! Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, topped with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy every mouthful of this comforting dish with friends or family—it’s sure to impress!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe)

Ready to make your creamy pesto sauce pasta the star of your dinner table? Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality pesto can significantly enhance the flavor of your pasta. Opt for homemade pesto if you have the time; it adds a delightful freshness that store-bought varieties often lack.
• Reserve pasta water wisely: Don’t forget to save some of the pasta cooking water before draining! This starchy liquid helps create a creamy texture in your sauce, allowing it to cling beautifully to the pasta.
• Adjust creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your preference. If you’re looking for a lighter dish, you can substitute part of the cream with vegetable broth or milk.
• Customize your veggies: This recipe is versatile! Add in or swap out veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. They not only boost nutrition but also add color and texture to your meal.
• Experiment with herbs: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like basil or arugula just before serving. They bring a burst of freshness and elevate the overall taste of the dish.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe)

Serving up this creamy pesto sauce pasta is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes. Here’s how you can serve it up beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts adds a lovely crunch and enhances the nutty flavor of the pesto.
• Fresh herbs: Top your dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and added aroma.
• Grated cheese: If desired, finish off with some grated Parmesan (or a dairy-free alternative) for an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs perfectly with creamy pasta, soaking up any leftover sauce while adding extra flavor.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus complement the dish while adding more nutrients.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also provides a nice crunch that contrasts beautifully with creamy pasta.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious creamy pesto sauce pasta! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy pesto sauce pasta is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the pasta to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Stir often until heated through.

FAQs

Got questions? No worries! Here are some common inquiries about this recipe.

Can I use a different type of pasta for Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe)?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti. Just adjust cooking times according to package instructions.

How can I make my Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe) healthier?

You can swap heavy cream with a lighter alternative like coconut cream or a plant-based cream. You can also add more veggies, such as spinach or zucchini, to boost nutritional value!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! To make this creamy pesto sauce pasta vegan, simply replace heavy cream with coconut milk and omit Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. The flavors will still be delightful!

What can I serve with Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe)?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this creamy pesto sauce pasta as much as I do! It’s not just easy and quick; it’s also packed with flavor and comfort. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious home-cooked meal without the fuss. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become one of your go-to recipes. Happy cooking!