This Easy Creamy Pesto Pasta comes together in just 10 minutes! With a blend of rich cream and flavorful pesto, it’s comfort food at its best—quick and delicious.
I love how I can whip this up on a busy day and still impress everyone at the dinner table. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal that tastes like a gourmet treat? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: I love using penne for its ability to hold onto the sauce, but you can easily swap it for any pasta you prefer—like fusilli or spaghetti works well too!
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto is super handy for this recipe, but homemade comes with a fresh taste! If you’re looking for a nut-free option, you can use sun-dried tomato spread instead.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half and half or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free option, keeping all that creamy goodness!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is classic here. If you’re avoiding dairy, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
Chicken: Adding cooked chicken is optional but makes it heartier. You can replace it with chickpeas or grilled veggies for a vegetarian option.
How Do You Make the Creamy Sauce Smooth?
The key to a creamy, smooth sauce is to avoid boiling after adding the cream. Here’s how to do it right:
- Keep your heat on low once you add the pesto and cream. This helps meld the flavors without curdling the cream.
- Stir constantly to combine the ingredients and ensure everything is warmed through but not boiling. You want to create a velvety texture!
- If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up, making it easier to coat the pasta.
These simple techniques can make all the difference in achieving that creamy texture every time!
Easy Creamy Pesto Pasta in 10 Minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 225g) penne pasta
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (optional)
- 1/2 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal takes about 10 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 8-10 minutes cooking the pasta and just a few minutes preparing the creamy pesto sauce. It’s perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or a last-minute meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (this usually takes about 8-10 minutes). After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. If you’re adding chicken, throw in the cooked chicken pieces to warm them up. This adds great flavor and makes the dish more filling!
3. Combine Pesto and Cream:
Lower the heat on the skillet, then pour in the basil pesto and heavy cream. Stir gently to mix the ingredients, allowing it to heat through without bringing it to a boil. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
4. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it together with the creamy pesto sauce until every piece is well coated. This is where the magic happens—your pasta transforms into a delicious, creamy dish!
5. Finish with Cheese and Seasoning:
Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the pasta, continuing to toss until it melts and blends perfectly with the sauce. Season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from heat and spoon the creamy pesto pasta into serving bowls. Top with halved cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that finishing touch.
7. Enjoy:
Serve immediately and dig into your quick, creamy pesto pasta! It’s comforting, flavorful, and ready in just 10 minutes!
This recipe is wonderfully flexible—feel free to swap out the penne for your favorite pasta shape and add in any extra veggies or proteins you enjoy. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Dish?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it can vary depending on the type of gluten-free pasta you use. Follow the package instructions for best results!
How Do I Store Leftover Creamy Pesto Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or a bit of pasta water to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli. Sauté them in the skillet before adding the pesto and cream. This not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish!
Is There a Dairy-Free Option for This Pasta?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. For the cheese, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Make sure to use a dairy-free pesto to keep the entire dish vegan-friendly!
