Short description

A luscious, velvety pasta dish featuring pesto blended seamlessly with cream for a rich, flavorful experience that’s both quick and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy pesto pasta is:

Fast and easy — ready in about 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
Rich and comforting — the perfect balance of herby pesto and creamy sauce
Versatile — pairs well with a variety of proteins and vegetables
Crowd-pleasing — a reliable favorite for both casual dinners and gatherings

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, fettuccine, etc.)
Garlic
Butter or olive oil
Cream (heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
Pesto (store-bought or homemade)
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper
Optional: reserved pasta cooking water

Directions

Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
In a skillet, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
Stir in cream and pesto, cooking until the mixture is heated through and slightly thickened.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot and garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2–4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon for extra protein
Stir in vegetables like spinach, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms
Use different types of pesto such as sun-dried tomato or arugula
Substitute Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a lighter cream base

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore texture
It’s best not to freeze the combined pasta, but the pesto or sauce alone can be frozen for up to 3 months

FAQs

What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of reserved pasta water, milk, or cream to loosen the sauce.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly and saves time.

How do I make it dairy-free or vegan?

Use plant-based cream and vegan pesto. Substitute the Parmesan with a vegan alternative.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the pesto and even the sauce ahead, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh.

What kind of pasta works best?

Short shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well, but long pasta like spaghetti also works.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, adding spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes enhances the dish nutritionally and visually.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze creamy pesto pasta?

Freezing the sauce or pesto separately is recommended. Combined pasta may lose its texture.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer a bit longer or stir in more cheese or a small amount of flour.

What goes well on the side?

Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy pesto pasta is a go-to dish that combines the bright, herby flavors of pesto with the indulgent richness of a creamy sauce. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and sure to be a favorite whether you’re cooking for yourself or guests. Enjoy this delicious and comforting meal any night of the week.