Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Easy One-Pot Favorite)

If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that feels indulgent yet effortless, Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Easy One-Pot Favorite) is about to earn a permanent place in your weekly dinner rotation. This recipe combines the bold, herby punch of pesto with a luxuriously smooth cream sauce, all clinging perfectly to tender penne pasta. The result is a dish that tastes like something you’d order at a cozy Italian restaurant—but it comes together in just 20 minutes, using simple pantry staples and minimal cleanup.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a casual family dinner, or even a last-minute get-together with friends, this Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Easy One-Pot Favorite) delivers big flavor with little effort. It’s rich without being heavy, versatile enough to customize, and comforting in that classic, soul-satisfying pasta way we all love.

In this in-depth guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making the perfect creamy pesto pasta—from ingredient breakdowns and pro tips to variations, storage, nutrition insights, and serving ideas. Let’s dive in.

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Why You’ll Love Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Easy One-Pot Favorite)

There are countless pasta recipes out there, but this one stands out for several reasons:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish

• One-Pot Friendly: Fewer dishes, less stress

• Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Creamy, herby, and perfectly seasoned

• Highly Customizable: Add protein, veggies, or make it lighter

• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike

This Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Easy One-Pot Favorite) balances convenience and indulgence beautifully. It’s proof that you don’t need complicated techniques or fancy ingredients to create a truly memorable meal.

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What Makes Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta So Special?

Pesto on its own is bold, fresh, and aromatic—traditionally made with basil, garlic, olive oil, nuts, and cheese. When you combine it with cream, something magical happens. The sharp herbal notes mellow into a silky, comforting sauce that coats pasta evenly without overpowering it.

In this Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Easy One-Pot Favorite), the pesto acts as the flavor backbone, while heavy cream adds richness and body. A touch of flour ensures the sauce thickens beautifully, and pasta water helps everything bind together into a smooth, glossy finish.

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Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian, Mediterranean

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Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to make Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Easy One-Pot Favorite) and why each ingredient matters:

Pasta

• 300 g penne pasta, cooked al dente
  Penne is ideal because its ridges hold onto the creamy pesto sauce beautifully. You can substitute with fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle if needed.

Salt

• 2 teaspoons salt, divided
  One portion for sautéing vegetables and another for seasoning the sauce. Proper seasoning is key to balancing the richness.

Vegetables

• 1 green bell pepper, diced
  Adds freshness, mild sweetness, and a pop of color.

• 1 red onion, diced
  Brings subtle sweetness and depth once caramelized.

Flavor Base

• 6 tablespoons pesto sauce
  Use your favorite store-bought pesto or homemade. Basil pesto works best, but sun-dried tomato pesto is also delicious.

• ½ cup reserved pasta water
  Essential for loosening the sauce and helping it cling to the pasta.

Creamy Element

• 2 cups heavy cream (35%)
  Creates that rich, luxurious texture.

• 1½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
  Thickens the sauce without making it gluey.

Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  Adds savory depth without overpowering.

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  Complements the pesto’s herbal notes.

• 1 teaspoon black pepper
  Balances the richness with gentle heat.

Finishing Touches

• Fresh parsley, chopped
  Adds brightness and freshness.

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  Enhances umami and richness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper and red onion along with 1 teaspoon salt. Sauté for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and lightly caramelized. This step builds the flavor foundation for your Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Easy One-Pot Favorite).

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2. Build the Pesto Base

Add the pesto sauce and reserved pasta water directly into the skillet. Stir well and allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the pesto bloom and evenly distribute its flavor throughout the sauce.

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3. Create the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a little warm water to form a smooth slurry. Remove the skillet from heat and slowly stir in the slurry to prevent lumps. Return to medium heat, pour in the heavy cream, and simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until thick and velvety.

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4. Season the Sauce

Add garlic powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with the remaining salt as needed.

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5. Combine the Pasta

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss gently until every piece is coated in the creamy pesto sauce. Let it simmer for 5 minutes so the pasta absorbs all that flavor.

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6. Serve

Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese and extra parsley on top if desired.

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Tips for the Best Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds its texture better in creamy sauces.

• Use Pasta Water Wisely: It’s starchy and helps emulsify the sauce.

• Low Heat Is Key: Avoid boiling the cream to prevent separation.

• Taste as You Go: Pesto varies in saltiness—adjust seasoning accordingly.

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Variations to Try

One of the reasons Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Easy One-Pot Favorite) is so popular is how adaptable it is.

Protein Add-Ins

• Grilled chicken breast

• Shrimp (sautéed separately)

• Crispy tofu or chickpeas

Vegetable Add-Ins

• Mushrooms

• Spinach or kale

• Zucchini

• Cherry tomatoes

Lighter Version

• Use half heavy cream and half whole milk

• Swap cream for evaporated milk

Cheesy Upgrade

• Stir Parmesan or mozzarella directly into the sauce

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One-Pot Shortcut Method

To make this truly a one-pot meal:

1. Add uncooked pasta to the skillet.

2. Pour in enough water or broth to cover.

3. Simmer until pasta is cooked.

4. Proceed with the sauce as directed.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Easy One-Pot Favorite) with:

• Garlic bread or focaccia

• A crisp green salad

• Roasted vegetables

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk or water.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as cream sauces can separate.

Print

Nutrition (Approximate, Per Serving)

• Calories: ~540 kcal

• Fat: ~38 g

• Saturated Fat: ~22 g

• Carbohydrates: ~42 g

• Protein: ~11 g

• Fiber: ~3 g

• Sodium: ~620 mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade pesto?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto makes this Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Easy One-Pot Favorite) even more flavorful.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes—use gluten-free pasta and replace flour with cornstarch.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very much so. You can reduce pepper for milder flavor.

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Why This Recipe Works for Busy Weeknights

This Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Easy One-Pot Favorite) is proof that quick dinners don’t have to be boring. It uses familiar ingredients, comes together fast, and delivers comfort with every bite.

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Final Thoughts

Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Easy One-Pot Favorite) is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It’s simple enough for hectic evenings yet elegant enough to serve to guests. The creamy texture, bold pesto flavor, and customizable nature make it a standout pasta dish that fits nearly any occasion.