One Pot Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta

If you’re craving a comforting yet fresh pasta dish that’s hassle-free and super tasty, this One Pot Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta will be your new go-to. This recipe combines the vibrant flavors of basil pesto with a luscious creamy sauce, all cooked in one pot for minimal mess and maximum flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a quick meal without sacrificing deliciousness, this dish balances fresh herbs, cheese, and cream into a satisfying, easy-to-make pasta that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Everything cooks together in one pot, saving you time and cleaning up fewer dishes.
• Rich, Creamy Flavor: The creamy sauce blends perfectly with the pesto for a luscious, indulgent taste.
• Fresh and Vibrant: Pesto brings bright basil notes that lift the dish and make it feel fresh.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily add veggies, protein, or swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: From pantry to plate in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy schedules.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines with simple, fresh ingredients that each contribute to its creamy texture, vibrant flavor, and pleasing color. Here’s what you’ll grab from the kitchen:

• Dry Pasta: Use pasta shapes like penne or rotini that hold the pesto sauce nicely.
• Basil Pesto: Provides the signature herbaceous, garlicky punch essential to this dish.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Blends smoothly with the pesto for a rich, creamy sauce.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Adds moisture and depth of flavor while helping cook the pasta evenly.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds savory umami and melts into the sauce for extra richness.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the aromatic foundation of the sauce.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the garlic and add a silky texture.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.

Variations for One Pot Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta

Feel free to make this recipe your own. It’s easy to adapt with these tasty variations to match your mood, dietary requirements, or fridge contents.

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra substance and nutrition.
• Vegetable Upgrade: Stir in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers for color and crunch.
• Dairy-Free Version: Swap cream for coconut milk and use a vegan pesto for a dairy-free option.
• Nutty Twist: Mix in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for additional texture and flavor.
• Cheese Variations: Try swapping Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a different twist.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant and golden, about 1 minute. This step builds a flavorful base for the sauce.

Step 2: Add Pasta and Liquid

Add the dry pasta along with chicken or vegetable broth into the pot. Stir to combine and bring it to a gentle boil. The broth will cook the pasta while infusing it with flavor.

Step 3: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the pasta simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until it becomes al dente and the broth is mostly absorbed, usually around 10–12 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Pesto

Once the pasta is almost cooked, lower heat and mix in the cream and basil pesto. Stir continuously to blend the sauce smoothly with the pasta for that creamy texture.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Season

Turn off the heat and add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and combines well. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the overall flavor.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Serve the One Pot Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta hot, optionally topped with fresh basil leaves or extra Parmesan. It’s ready to enjoy in moments!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta

• Use High-Quality Pesto: Fresh or store-bought, the pesto is the star, so choose one with bold basil flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta texture to avoid mushiness since it cooks in broth.
• Stir Frequently: Regular stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking of the pasta.
• Adjust Cream Consistency: Add more broth or cream as needed for your preferred sauce thickness.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in chopped parsley or basil at the end for an extra pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or even a few toasted pine nuts add a beautiful finish and extra dimension to the flavors.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal that satisfies all cravings.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in colorful bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon zest, or stuff the pasta into bell peppers and bake for a fun, family-friendly presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully but expect the sauce to thicken as it cools.

Freezing

This pasta freezes well for up to 1 month. Use freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.

Reheating

Reheat on low heat, stirring frequently to loosen the sauce. Adding a little extra cream or broth prevents the pasta from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works perfectly and saves time, but opt for a good-quality brand to keep bold, fresh flavors.

What type of pasta works best in this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle are ideal because they hold the creamy pesto sauce well and cook evenly in the broth.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Yes! Use a dairy-free pesto, substitute cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version.

Can I add protein to this pasta?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy tofu make excellent additions to turn this pasta into a complete meal.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking in the pot?

Stir frequently while cooking and use enough broth to keep the pasta from drying out. A splash of olive oil can also help reduce sticking.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a beautiful blend of ease and flavor that feels special anytime. Whether you’re rushing through a busy evening or cooking for friends, it’s a simple recipe that delivers big on taste and comfort. So go ahead, give it a try—you might just find your next favorite weeknight dinner!

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