Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a delightful, comforting dish that combines perfectly cooked pasta with a rich, herby sauce. This quick and easy recipe takes under 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With the vibrant flavor of fresh basil, creamy texture from heavy cream, and the nutty crunch of pine nuts, each bite is a culinary experience that feels indulgent yet healthy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a blender or food processor, combine basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan; pulse until chunky.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth. Add heavy cream and blend until fully combined.
- In a skillet over medium heat, toss the drained pasta with the pesto sauce until well coated.
- Adjust consistency using reserved pasta water as needed; season with salt and pepper before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Customize with grilled chicken or veggies for added nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream.