Description
A rich and velvety creamy pesto pasta made with tender pasta, fresh basil pesto, garlic, and Parmesan, creating a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for quick meals or elegant dinners.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add basil pesto and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use high-quality pesto for best flavor.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for variation.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Use coconut milk and dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Reheat gently with a splash of milk or water to loosen sauce.
- Avoid high heat to prevent sauce separation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
