Print

One-Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta: Quick Weeknight Comfort Food

Close-up of penne pasta coated generously in vibrant green creamy pesto pasta sauce in a white bowl.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this rich, velvety pesto cream sauce pasta in one pot for a fast, satisfying weeknight dinner. This recipe delivers Alfredo-style comfort with bright basil flavor and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup prepared basil pesto (homemade or good quality store-bought)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.
  2. Add the dry penne pasta and the water or broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is nearly al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  4. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, basil pesto, and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and coats the pasta evenly. This creates your **velvety pesto sauce**.
  5. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top for a truly **gourmet easy pasta** experience.

Notes

  • For a heartier meal, you can add 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken or a few handfuls of fresh spinach during the final stirring step.
  • If you prefer a richer, **Alfredo style pesto** texture, use a full-fat heavy cream.
  • To make this dish naturally gluten-free, simply substitute the penne with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/creamy-pesto-pasta/