As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of basil filled the air, whisking me away to sun-soaked Italian summers. There’s something magical about a dish that captures those vibes, and my Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta does just that. This one-pot wonder is designed for busy weeknights, merging the comforting richness of heavy cream and vibrant pesto with the wholesome goodness of sautéed vegetables and al dente penne. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to whip up, making it a perfect solution for those evenings when takeout just won’t cut it. Plus, with minimal cleanup, you can savor each delightful bite without the stress. Are you ready to dive into the creamy perfection? Why is Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta a Must-Try? Quick and Easy: This one-pot recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal fast. Rich, Creamy Texture: The heavy cream combined with vibrant pesto creates a sauce that’s indulgently smooth, clinging to each piece of penne ideal for embracing your taste buds. Flavorful Veggies: Sautéed green bell peppers and red onions add a delightful depth to the dish, ensuring you get your veggie fix in a tasty way. Minimal Cleanup: One pot is all you need! Spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes afterward. Versatile and Customizable: Whether you prefer meat or want to keep it vegetarian, this dish easily adapts to your taste—add chicken, shrimp, or even swap out the pasta! Pair it with a simple side salad to complete your meal with ease. Indulge in this delicious dish, and consider checking out my Tagliatelle with Asparagus Peas for another delightful pasta option! The Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta • Get ready to create a meal that’s packed with flavor and ease! For the Pasta Penne Pasta – This pasta shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully. Salt – Vital for enhancing the overall flavor; use two teaspoons, divided. For the Vegetables Green Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and a lovely crunch; dice and sauté until softened. Red Onion – Contributes depth and is delicious when sautéed alongside the bell pepper. For the Sauce Pesto Sauce – The star ingredient that brings richness; six tablespoons needed for that authentic creamy pesto sauce pasta taste. Reserved Pasta Water – Helps adjust sauce consistency, adding flavor; about half a cup should suffice. Heavy Cream (35%) – Delivers a velvety texture for your sauce; use two cups to achieve that creaminess. All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce without creating lumps; prepare a slurry with 1.5 tablespoons mixed with warm water. Garlic Powder – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; one tablespoon will enhance the taste. Dried Oregano – Offers a hint of herbal notes; one tablespoon is just right. Freshly Chopped Parsley – Adds freshness and a pop of color, recommended as a finishing touch. Black Pepper – Provides seasoning; one teaspoon will do nicely. Grated Parmesan – Optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor! Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and bring this delightful dish to life! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta Step 1: Sauté Vegetables Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper and red onion along with 1 teaspoon of salt. Sauté these vibrant vegetables for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are softened and lightly caramelized, releasing their natural sweetness. Step 2: Prepare Pesto Sauce Once the vegetables are tender, introduce the star ingredient: six tablespoons of pesto sauce. Stir in half a cup of reserved pasta water, allowing it to blend beautifully with the veggies. Let this mixture simmer for approximately 5 minutes, which will thicken the sauce slightly and enhance the flavors. Step 3: Create Creamy Base In a separate bowl, whisk together 1.5 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with warm water to create a smooth slurry. Gradually pour the slurry into the skillet, then add two cups of heavy cream, stirring continuously. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until thickened, creating that luscious, creamy texture essential for your creamy pesto sauce pasta. Step 4: Season the Sauce Now, it’s time to elevate the flavor! Mix in one tablespoon of garlic powder, one tablespoon of dried oregano, a handful of freshly chopped parsley, and one teaspoon of black pepper. Stir thoroughly and taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed for a burst of flavor in your creamy pesto sauce pasta. Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce After the sauce is well-seasoned and thick, gently toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step allows the pasta to soak up the flavors of the rich sauce, ensuring each bite is as delicious as possible. Step 6: Serve Finally, plate the creamy pesto sauce pasta, garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional parsley if desired. The dish should look inviting and creamy, ready to be enjoyed. Serve it warm and indulge in this quick and cozy dinner that’s sure to please everyone! Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta Variations Feel free to get creative with this delightful dish—there are so many ways to make it your own! Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap out penne for gluten-free pasta like brown rice or chickpea varieties for a gluten-free option that still delivers on taste and texture. Protein Boost: Stir in diced, cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a healthy protein addition that takes this meal to the next level. It turns this delicious dish into a filling main course! Dairy-Free: Use full-fat coconut milk or a reliable non-dairy cream alternative to maintain that creamy texture without dairy, perfect for vegan or lactose-free diets. Veggie Explosion: Add in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra color and nutrients, making this dish even more wholesome and satisfying. Nutty Flavor: For a delightful twist, incorporate a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts, enhancing the Mediterranean flair and adding an enjoyable crunch. Spicy Kick: If you crave a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños for that zesty swirl in your creamy pesto sauce pasta. Fresh Herbs: Experiment with different herbs! Basil, arugula, or even a sprinkle of fresh dill can add a fantastic new dimension to the dish. Pesto Variations: Switch your traditional basil pesto for a sun-dried tomato or spinach pesto to give your creamy sauce an entirely different flavor that will surprise and delight! Feeling adventurous? Dive into more amazing pasta dishes, like my Asian Chicken Meatballs or if you’re craving a different take on classics, try my Black Bean Sauce for a fusion twist! What to Serve with Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta When it comes to crafting the perfect meal, pairing your creamy pesto sauce pasta with delightful sides can elevate your dining experience. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the creamy sauce perfectly, adding a satisfying crunch with each bite. Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette adds crispness and balances the richness of the pasta. It’s light and refreshing! Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies like zucchini and asparagus enhance the flavor profile while providing a healthy, colorful side that’s easy to prepare. Cheesy Stuffed Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks are a comforting addition that allows you to soak up every last drop of that luscious creamy sauce. Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, opt for a light lemon sorbet. Its bright, zesty flavor cleanses the palate after a rich meal, leaving a refreshing finish. Chardonnay: A crisp glass of Chardonnay pairs beautifully, as its notes of citrus and oak harmonize wonderfully with the creamy and herby flavors of your pasta. Enjoy your meal! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the creamy pesto sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply sauté the vegetables and mix in the pesto sauce, heavy cream, and all the seasonings as instructed, then refrigerate the sauce in an airtight container. When ready to serve, just cook your penne pasta, reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to restore its creamy texture. Toss everything together, and you’ll enjoy a freshly made dish that tastes just as delicious as when it was first prepared! How to Store and Freeze Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the creamy sauce stays fresh and delicious. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore its creamy texture. Serving Suggestions: Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan to elevate your reheated creamy pesto sauce pasta! Expert Tips for Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta Sauté Until Softened: Ensure your green bell pepper and red onion are fully tender before adding the pesto. This enhances the overall flavor and sweetness. Gradual Slurry Addition: When making the flour slurry, add it gradually to prevent clumps in your creamy pesto sauce pasta, creating a smooth texture. Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, stir in additional reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve your desired creamy consistency. Timing is Key: To prevent soggy pasta, combine it with the sauce just before serving. This keeps the pasta al dente and delightful. Ventilate While Cooking: Good ventilation is essential to avoid any buildup of cooking fumes, especially when sautéing vegetables for your creamy pesto sauce pasta. Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe vegetables for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting your green bell pepper and red onion, look for ones that are firm, brightly colored, and free from any dark spots. A perfect bell pepper should feel heavy for its size, while a red onion should have a smooth skin that glistens a bit. Freshness greatly enhances the taste of your creamy pesto sauce pasta. How long can I store leftovers, and what’s the best way to reheat? Very! You can store any leftover creamy pesto sauce pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help restore that creamy texture. Stir occasionally until heated through—this will keep it delicious! Can I freeze creamy pesto sauce pasta, and if so, how? Yes, you can! To freeze your creamy pesto sauce pasta, transfer it to a freezer-safe container after it has cooled completely. Make sure to seal it tightly to avoid freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water! What are some common troubleshooting tips if my sauce isn’t thickening? If your sauce isn’t thickening as expected, don’t worry! First, ensure you added the flour slurry gradually. If it’s still thin, allow it to simmer a bit longer while stirring constantly. You can also add more reserved pasta water if it looks too thick, or mix in a little more flour slurry if it’s too thin. Just remember, patience is key—simmering often helps everything come together beautifully! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! If you’re serving this creamy pesto sauce pasta to someone with food allergies, ensure that your pesto sauce is free of nuts, as traditional recipes often contain pine nuts. Additionally, if you’re accommodating dietary restrictions such as lactose intolerance, consider substituting the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative, such as coconut cream or a cashew cream. This way, everyone can enjoy this cozy meal! Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta: Your Quick, Cozy Dinner Hero This Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a quick and easy one-pot meal that combines heavy cream, vibrant pesto, and sautéed vegetables for a delightful dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: Best of 2025Cuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 ounces Penne Pasta This pasta shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully.2 teaspoons Salt Vital for enhancing the overall flavor; use two teaspoons, divided.For the Vegetables1 medium Green Bell Pepper Adds sweetness and a lovely crunch; dice and sauté until softened.1 medium Red Onion Contributes depth and is delicious when sautéed alongside the bell pepper.For the Sauce6 tablespoons Pesto Sauce The star ingredient that brings richness.0.5 cup Reserved Pasta Water Helps adjust sauce consistency, adding flavor.2 cups Heavy Cream (35%) Delivers a velvety texture for your sauce.1.5 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Thickens the sauce without creating lumps; prepare a slurry with warm water.1 tablespoon Garlic Powder Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.1 tablespoon Dried Oregano Offers a hint of herbal notes.Freshly Chopped Parsley Adds freshness and a pop of color, recommended as a finishing touch.1 teaspoon Black Pepper Provides seasoning.Grated Parmesan Optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor! Equipment Large Skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper and red onion along with 1 teaspoon of salt. Sauté these vibrant vegetables for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are softened and lightly caramelized, releasing their natural sweetness.Once the vegetables are tender, introduce the star ingredient: six tablespoons of pesto sauce. Stir in half a cup of reserved pasta water, allowing it to blend beautifully with the veggies. Let this mixture simmer for approximately 5 minutes.In a separate bowl, whisk together 1.5 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with warm water to create a smooth slurry. Gradually pour the slurry into the skillet, then add two cups of heavy cream, stirring continuously.Mix in one tablespoon of garlic powder, one tablespoon of dried oregano, a handful of freshly chopped parsley, and one teaspoon of black pepper. Stir thoroughly and taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.After the sauce is well-seasoned and thick, gently toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.Finally, plate the creamy pesto sauce pasta, garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional parsley if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesStore any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
