Creamy Pesto Pasta: A Flavorful Italian Delight Recipe

Name: Creamy Pesto Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 2 cups fresh basil leaves; 1/3 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste

By Jessica Moore

January 30, 2026

0

6

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a creamy pesto pasta to whisk you away from the mundane and transport you straight to the Italian countryside. Picture this: twirling strands of pasta coated in a luscious, vibrant green sauce, with hints of garlic and basil dancing on your taste buds. It’s like a flavor fiesta in your mouth, and honestly, who doesn’t want that?

Now imagine it’s a chilly evening, and you’re cozied up at home. The aroma of fresh basil fills the air as you whip up this delightful dish, making even the gloomiest of days feel like a celebration. Creamy pesto pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together. With every bite, you’ll be reminded that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy pesto pasta is quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Its flavor profile bursts with freshness that will leave your taste buds singing
Visually stunning with its vibrant green hue, it impresses at any dinner table
Plus, this versatile dish pairs well with various proteins or veggies, ensuring there’s something for everyone!

The time my friends tried this recipe for the first time was unforgettable; their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: I prefer using fettuccine or penne for their amazing sauce-hugging capabilities.
Fresh Basil: Always opt for bright green leaves; they provide the fresh flavor that makes pesto sing.
Pine Nuts: Lightly toasted pine nuts add a nutty richness; don’t skip this step.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh cheese offers unmatched creaminess and depth; pre-grated just doesn’t cut it.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key; they infuse the sauce with aromatic delight.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and provides silky texture.
Cream: Heavy cream elevates the sauce’s richness; feel free to swap for half-and-half if you want lighter vibes.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a pot of salted water over high heat. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. You want it firm enough to hold up against that creamy sauce.

Prepare the Pesto: While your pasta cooks, toss fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, and pine nuts into a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped before slowly drizzling in olive oil until your mixture becomes smooth and dreamy.

Add Cheese and Cream: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream into your pesto mix. Blend until everything is beautifully combined; you should have a velvety mixture that looks like pure bliss.

Toss Pasta with Pesto Sauce: Once your pasta is cooked and drained (save some cooking water!), return it to the pot over low heat. Pour in your creamy pesto sauce and toss until each strand of pasta is generously coated.

Adjust Consistency if Needed: If things seem too thick (and we all know how clingy sauces can be), add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you reach desired creaminess.

Serve and Enjoy!: Plate your masterpiece with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top and maybe even some more pine nuts if you’re feeling fancy. Dive in immediately because trust me, it won’t last long!

And there you have it! This creamy pesto pasta serves as both comfort food on lonely nights or a centerpiece at gatherings with loved ones—just remember to save yourself some leftovers (if there are any)!

You Must Know

Creamy pesto pasta is a delightful dish that marries rich flavors with simplicity
Fresh basil, garlic, and cream create an aromatic experience that tantalizes your taste buds
The vibrant green color brightens any dining table, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by boiling the pasta, then sauté garlic in olive oil while the pasta cooks. Combine them with pesto and cream for maximum flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different herbs or veggies! Spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can elevate your creamy pesto pasta to new heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover creamy pesto pasta in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use freshly made pesto for a burst of flavor; store-bought versions can’t compare
Remember to reserve some pasta water; it helps to adjust the sauce consistency later
Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente provides the best texture

Cooking this creamy pesto pasta has become my go-to dish for impressing friends. They rave about it every time, asking if I’m secretly a gourmet chef!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use store-bought pesto for creamy pesto pasta?

Yes, but homemade pesto adds a fresher flavor that enhances your dish significantly.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Try using coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter option in your creamy pesto pasta.

How long does creamy pesto pasta last in the fridge?

Store it in an airtight container for up to three days without losing its deliciousness.

Print