Ingredients
– 12 ounces pasta (your choice)
– 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
– Cherry tomatoes (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Making Creamy Pesto Pasta is a breeze when you follow these simple steps:
1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Incorporate Pesto: Stir in the basil pesto and mix well until fully combined with the cream.
5. Cheese Time: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
6. Combine Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the creamy pesto sauce.
7. Season: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Garnish: If desired, top with fresh basil leaves and halved cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.
9. Serve Warm: Transfer to serving plates or bowls and enjoy immediately!
These steps will guide you in creating this incredible pasta effortlessly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms can be excellent additions to make your pasta dish more filling.