What to put in pesto pasta to make it creamy?

To make pesto pasta creamy, ingredients like heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, mascarpone, or even a splash of pasta water are commonly added. In this recipe, heavy cream creates a rich and silky pesto cream sauce while Parmesan helps thicken the sauce and add savory flavor. Reserved pasta water is also important because the starch helps emulsify the sauce and create a smooth, glossy consistency that coats the pasta beautifully.

What is creamy pesto pasta made of?

Creamy pesto pasta is typically made with pasta, basil pesto, cream, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. The pesto adds bright herb flavor while the cream creates a smooth, rich sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Some versions also include vegetables, chicken, or shrimp for extra flavor and texture.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly in this recipe and makes it even easier to prepare. Choose a good-quality basil pesto for the best flavor. Homemade pesto also works beautifully if you have fresh basil on hand.

Why is my pesto pasta dry?

Pesto pasta can become dry if there isn’t enough sauce or pasta water added. Reserved pasta water helps loosen the sauce and create a silky consistency. Adding a splash while tossing the pasta helps everything stay creamy and smooth.

What pasta works best with pesto sauce?

Penne, rigatoni, rotini, fettuccine, and spaghetti all work well with creamy pesto sauce. Short pasta shapes help catch the sauce in all their ridges and curves, while long noodles create a more classic pasta presentation.

Can I make creamy pesto pasta ahead of time?

Yes, but creamy pesto pasta is best served fresh. If making ahead, store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to help restore the creamy texture.

Easy Creamy Pesto Pasta

Name: Easy Creamy Pesto Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated; 1 cup heavy cream; ¼ cup pesto, basil pesto or garlic scape pesto; ⅓ cup parmesan cheese, grated; salt and pepper (to taste); fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Description

Easy creamy pesto pasta with basil pesto, Parmesan, and garlic. Quick, flavorful weeknight pasta dinner ready in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces pasta
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup pesto, basil pesto or garlic scape pesto
⅓ cup parmesan cheese, grated
salt and pepper (to taste)
fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve about ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Reduce heat to low and stir in pesto and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly in the creamy pesto sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve warm.

Notes

Reserve pasta water for adjusting consistency.

Use freshly grated Parmesan for smooth melting.

Do not overheat pesto after adding.

Homemade or store-bought pesto both work well.

How to store: Allow the creamy pesto pasta to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken slightly as it sits, but the flavors become even more delicious overnight.

How to reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to help restore the creamy texture.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner, Pasta
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian