Creamy Pesto Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and quick prep time, this recipe is a must-try for pasta lovers looking for a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of creamy sauce and flavorful pesto creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
- This dish can be whipped up in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
- Creamy Pesto Pasta is perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed as leftovers for a quick lunch the next day.
Ingredient Notes:
- Penne pasta: Provides a sturdy base for the creamy sauce to cling to.
- Olive oil: Adds a rich flavor to the dish.
- Garlic: Infuses the sauce with a delicious aroma and taste.
- Heavy cream: Creates a luscious and creamy texture.
- Milk or half and half: Helps to thin out the sauce while adding a touch of creaminess.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor to the dish.
- Chili flakes: Adds a hint of spice to balance out the richness of the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Pesto: Adds a burst of fresh basil flavor to the pasta.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and milk, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add chili flakes, salt, and black pepper, then stir in pesto until well combined.
- Toss cooked pasta in the creamy pesto sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Helpful Tips:
- For a lighter version, use half and half instead of heavy cream.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Swap penne pasta for your favorite pasta shape if desired.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning of the sauce before tossing it with the pasta.
- Reserve some pasta water to thin out the sauce if needed.
- Make your own pesto for a truly homemade touch.
Serving Suggestions:
Creamy Pesto Pasta pairs well with a simple side salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal. Consider serving it with garlic bread or roasted vegetables for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store leftover Creamy Pesto Pasta, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta and heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought pesto works well in this recipe for convenience. - How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk and nutritional yeast. - Can I freeze Creamy Pesto Pasta?
While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the sauce may change upon reheating.
Conclusion:
Creamy Pesto Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that is sure to satisfy your pasta cravings. Give this recipe a try and let us know how you liked it! Don’t forget to share your feedback with us. Enjoy!
Print
Creamy Pesto Pasta (30-Minute Meal!)
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this quick and easy Creamy Pesto Pasta that combines rich flavors of pesto, cream, and cheese for a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 450 g Penne pasta uncooked
- 2 tablespoon Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 ½ cups Heavy cream
- ½ cup Milk or half and half
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- ½ teaspoon Chili flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup Pesto
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil water, add penne pasta, and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a pan, heat olive oil, sauté garlic, pour in cream, milk, Parmesan, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until thickened.
- Combine: Add pesto to the sauce, mix well, then toss in the cooked pasta. Stir until coated.
- Serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan and enjoy!
Notes
- This dish can be customized with additional veggies like cherry tomatoes or spinach.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more milk or cream as needed.