why make this recipe
Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a quick and easy dish that brings rich flavors to your table. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you have friends over. The one-pot method saves time on cleanup, making it a hassle-free meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a comforting dinner, this recipe is simple yet satisfying. You’ll love the creamy texture combined with the bold flavors of pesto.
how to make Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
Ingredients:
- 300 g penne pasta (cooked al dente)
- 2 tsp salt (divided)
- 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)
Directions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper and red onion. Sauté until they are soft, about 5 minutes.
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Prepare the Pesto Sauce: Once the vegetables are soft, stir in the pesto sauce. Mix well to combine the flavors.
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Create the Creamy Base: In a separate bowl, mix the heavy cream and all-purpose flour. Whisk until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the pot, along with the reserved pasta water, stirring continuously.
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Season the Sauce: Add garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Stir to mix everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the pot. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is nicely coated with the creamy pesto sauce.
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Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.
how to serve Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
Serve the Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta hot. You can place it in bowls and garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese on top for added taste. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
tips to make Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
- Make sure to cook the penne pasta just until it’s al dente for the best texture.
- Feel free to add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- You can also toss in additional veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for more flavor and nutrition.
variation (if any)
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. If you want a gluten-free option, substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works great and saves time. Just make sure to choose a quality brand for the best flavor.
Can I freeze the creamy pesto pasta?
While it’s not recommended to freeze, you can keep it in the fridge for a few days. The texture might change when thawed.
What else can I add to this recipe?
You can add protein like chicken or shrimp, or mix in more vegetables such as broccoli or zucchini for variety.