Creamy Pesto Pasta: A Quick and Delicious Weeknight Dinner
Pasta is one of the most versatile foods you can have in your kitchen. With countless shapes, colors, and flavors available, it’s a canvas for creativity. Whether you’re pairing it with a rich sauce or a light filling, pasta always delivers. Today, I’m sharing a simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe for Creamy Pesto Pasta, a dish that’s perfect for using up leftover chicken or whipping up a comforting meal in under 30 minutes. This creamy, flavorful pasta is ideal for a weeknight dinner and can even double as a main dish or a side. Best of all, it’s made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry!
This recipe is straightforward, so there’s no need to stress about perfection. The creamy pesto sauce comes together effortlessly, coating your favorite pasta in a rich, herbaceous flavor that’s sure to please. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Pasta
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Versatile: Use any pasta shape you love, and it pairs well with leftover chicken or veggies.
- Comforting yet Light: The creamy pesto sauce is indulgent but not overly heavy.
- Customizable: Adjust the creaminess or add your favorite ingredients to make it your own.
Creamy Pesto Pasta: A Quick and Delicious Weeknight Dinner
6
servings5
minutes15
minutes400
kcalIngredients
Basic Basil Pesto: 1 cup
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
Heavy Cream: 1/4 cup (add more for a richer sauce)
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Favorite Pasta: 1 pound, cooked (e.g., penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
Optional: Reserved pasta water for thinning the sauce
Directions
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Warm the Pesto: Add 1 cup of basil pesto to the skillet, stirring frequently to warm it through. Let it bubble gently for a minute or two to release its flavors.
- Add the Cream: Slowly pour in 1/4 cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine with the pesto. If you prefer a creamier sauce, feel free to add a bit more cream.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add a splash of reserved pasta water (from cooking your pasta) to thin it out to your desired consistency.
- Season and Combine: Lower the heat and stir the sauce until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss in your cooked pasta, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the creamy pesto sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and serve immediately. Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or fresh basil leaves for an extra touch, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Choose Your Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well, but long pasta like spaghetti or linguine works beautifully too.
- Make It Your Own: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce.
- Pesto Options: Homemade pesto is fantastic, but store-bought works just as well for convenience.
Why This Recipe Works
This creamy pesto pasta strikes the perfect balance between rich and fresh. The basil pesto brings a vibrant, herbaceous flavor, while the heavy cream adds a luxurious texture without overwhelming the dish. The olive oil ties it all together, ensuring a smooth, glossy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. Plus, with only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
- Protein: ~10g (varies with pasta type)
- Fat: ~20g (from pesto, cream, and olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: ~50g (based on 1/6 of a pound of cooked pasta)
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pesto Pasta is the ultimate weeknight hero—fast, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a small gathering, this dish is sure to impress with minimal effort. Serve it with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that feels like a treat. Try it out and let this creamy, dreamy pasta become a staple in your kitchen!
