Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This creamy pesto pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Combining rich basil pesto with a smooth, creamy sauce, it offers comfort and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients
- 300 grams pasta of your choice (about 11 ounces)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, grated, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
- Step 2: In a large skillet or pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the basil pesto and whisk until the mixture begins to bubble.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium-low and slowly whisk in the milk or cream until fully incorporated. Add the cooked pasta and toss well to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Step 4: Serve the pasta plated and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Optionally, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer sauce, use cream instead of milk.
- Add sautéed chicken or vegetables for a heartier meal.
- Fresh basil leaves can be added as a garnish to enhance the pesto flavor.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought pesto works well and saves time. Choose a high-quality pesto for the best flavor.
Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?
Reserving pasta water is helpful because the starchy water can thin the sauce while helping it cling better to the pasta, resulting in a creamier texture.
PrintCreamy Pesto Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Pesto Pasta recipe features perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a luscious, buttery basil pesto sauce enriched with milk or cream for a smooth texture. Garnished with freshly grated Parmesan and optional toasted pine nuts, it’s a quick, comforting meal ideal for any night of the week.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Pasta
- 300 grams pasta of choice (about 11 ounces)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup Basil pesto
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Toasted pine nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Prepare the sauce base: In a large skillet or pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the basil pesto and whisk it continuously until the mixture begins to bubble, releasing the aromatic flavors of the pesto.
- Add milk or cream: Reduce the heat to medium-low and slowly whisk in the milk or cream until fully incorporated, creating a creamy, smooth sauce base.
- Toss the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Plate and garnish: Serve the creamy pesto pasta on plates, topping with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and optional toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- To toast pine nuts, gently heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- If you prefer a richer sauce, use cream instead of milk.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives and use a vegan basil pesto.
- Reserve pasta water is essential for adjusting sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
Keywords: creamy pesto pasta, basil pesto pasta, easy pesto recipe, quick pasta dinner, vegetarian pasta
