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One Pot Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta

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One Pot Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a quick and comforting dish where pasta cooks right in a flavorful basil pesto and cream sauce. It’s rich, herby, cheesy, and ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for an easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or any short pasta)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream
  • 1/3 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 2 cups baby spinach
  • Optional: 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.
  3. Add the uncooked pasta and cook uncovered, stirring often, for 10–12 minutes or until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Lower the heat and stir in the cream, pesto, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
  5. If using spinach or tomatoes, stir them in and cook for 1–2 more minutes until wilted and softened.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • Use dairy-free pesto and cream for a vegan version.
  • Add grilled chicken, beans, or mushrooms for extra protein.
  • A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the flavor before serving.
  • Use different pestos like arugula or sun-dried tomato for variety.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/one-pot-creamy-pesto-sauce-pasta/