Name: Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe: Vibrant and Flavorful
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 oz dried pasta (fettuccine, penne, or farfalle); 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 garlic cloves (minced); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup reserved pasta water; Optional: Fresh basil (extra Parmesan); Suggested Pairings: White wine (garlic bread)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Creamy Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish, perfect for family dinners, date nights, or quick meals. This vibrant, rich pasta, featuring tender noodles coated in a creamy basil pesto sauce, delivers a fresh, nutty flavor with a smooth, velvety texture. Presented in a white ceramic bowl, optionally garnished with fresh basil or grated Parmesan, this Creamy Pesto Pasta recipe offers an elegant, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a simple homemade version with accessible ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings bold, Italian-inspired flavors to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Pesto Pasta:

8 oz dried pasta (e.g., fettuccine, penne, or farfalle)
1/2 cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup reserved pasta water

For Homemade Pesto (Optional, if not using store-bought):

2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 tsp kosher salt

Serving:

Optional: Fresh basil, extra-grated Parmesan
Suggested Accompaniments: Garlic bread, green salad
Suggested Pairings: White wine, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic bowl
Suggested Equipment: Large pot, colander, medium saucepan, blender or food processor (for homemade pesto), whisk, measuring cups/spoons, knife

Step-by-Step Process

Cook Pasta: Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water per package instructions until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Make Homemade Pesto (if using): In a blender or food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and salt. Pulse until finely chopped. With the machine running, slowly add olive oil until smooth. Set aside.
Start Creamy Pesto Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Cream and Pesto: Pour in heavy cream and prepared pesto (store-bought or homemade). Stir to combine and heat through for 2–3 minutes.
Season and Add Cheese: Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust with a pinch more salt, pepper, or Parmesan to ensure a balanced flavor.
Combine with Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the saucepan, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add 1–2 tbsp of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Serve: Transfer the pasta to a white ceramic bowl. Optionally garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan. Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, white wine, or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Creamy Pesto Pasta

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce and richest flavor.
Taste the sauce before tossing to balance nutty, creamy, and savory flavors; adjust sparingly.
Cook pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften in the warm sauce.
Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
Present in a white ceramic bowl to highlight the vibrant green sauce and garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance; store in the fridge, reheat gently, and thin with cream or pasta water before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.
For homemade pesto, toast pine nuts lightly for extra flavor.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with basil or Parmesan for a vibrant, elegant pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Creamy Pesto Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure pesto ingredients are gluten-free.
Vegan Creamy Pesto Pasta: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan, and use vegan pesto (omit cheese or use vegan cheese in homemade pesto).
Low-Fat Creamy Pesto Pasta: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce Parmesan to 2 tbsp.
Spicy Creamy Pesto Pasta: Add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick.
Vegetable Creamy Pesto Pasta: Add 1 cup sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to the sauce before tossing.
Protein-Packed Creamy Pesto Pasta: Stir in 1 cup cooked shredded chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas after the sauce is made.
Herbed Creamy Pesto Pasta: Add 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley to the sauce.
Nut-Free Creamy Pesto Pasta: Replace pine nuts with sunflower seeds in homemade pesto or use a nut-free store-bought pesto.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of cream or pasta water to restore creaminess.
Do not freeze, as the creamy sauce may separate and become grainy upon thawing.
Serve warm for the best, rich, velvety texture.
Use as a standalone main dish or pair with light sides for a complete meal.
Pair with white wine or sparkling water to complement the fresh, nutty flavors.
Present in a white ceramic bowl with garnishes for a vibrant, elegant charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings (1.5 cups each, using store-bought pesto):

Calories: 580 kcal
Total Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 620mg
Total Carbohydrates: 48g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 14g
Vitamin A: 20% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 8% Daily Value
Calcium: 20% Daily Value
Iron: 10% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (vegan options reduce cholesterol). Moderate in calories; pair with light sides for balance.

Conclusion

This Creamy Pesto Pasta recipe delivers a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or date nights, transforming simple ingredients into an indulgent favorite. Its easy preparation and elegant presentation make it a go-to. The creamy pesto and tender pasta delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing Italian charm.