If you’ve ever wanted to bring the taste of a cozy Italian bistro into your kitchen, this Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta does it effortlessly. It’s rich without being heavy, herby without being overpowering, and creamy enough to coat every forkful in pure comfort.
The basil pesto gives that signature freshness, while the cream transforms it into a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to penne.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Sauce Pasta
This pasta checks every box for flavor, texture, and ease.
- Creamy, herby, and full of fresh Italian flavor
- Ready in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights
- Made with simple pantry staples
- Customizable with veggies, proteins, or gluten-free pasta
- Reheats beautifully and stays creamy
- Family-friendly comfort with a gourmet twist
I first made this recipe on a weeknight when my daughter asked for “green pasta like the one from that café.” I smiled because I knew she meant pesto. I threw together what I had—bell peppers, onions, and a jar of pesto—and finished it off with a splash of cream.
When my wife took her first bite, she said, “You have to write this one down.” And just like that, this Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta became a staple in our home—rich, easy, and full of love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe combines pantry-friendly ingredients with fresh, aromatic flavors.
Main Ingredients
- 300 g penne pasta, cooked al dente – perfect texture for creamy sauces
- 2 tsp salt, divided – one for pasta water, one for seasoning
- 1 green bell pepper, diced – adds a subtle sweetness
- 1 red onion, diced – brings depth and balance
- 6 tbsp pesto sauce – the heart of the flavor
- ½ cup reserved pasta water – helps emulsify the sauce
- 2 cups heavy cream (35%) – rich and velvety base
- 1½ tbsp all-purpose flour – thickens the sauce naturally
- 1 tbsp garlic powder – enhances the flavor without overwhelming
- 1 tbsp dried oregano – adds Italian warmth
- 1 tsp black pepper – balances richness
- Freshly chopped parsley – for garnish and freshness
- Grated Parmesan – optional, for a salty finish
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Swap bell pepper for cherry tomatoes for color and tang
- Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein
- Replace penne with fettuccine or rotini for variety
- Stir in spinach or kale for a veggie boost
- Use homemade pesto for a stronger basil flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
This creamy pesto pasta is as easy to make as it is to devour.
- Cook the pasta.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. (Jake’s tip: The salty pasta water helps bind the sauce to the noodles perfectly.) - Sauté the veggies.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. - Make the creamy base.
Lower heat and sprinkle in flour. Stir for 30 seconds, then pour in heavy cream gradually, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. - Add flavor.
Stir in garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. - Incorporate the pesto.
Mix in the pesto sauce and reserved pasta water. Stir well until smooth and silky. (Jake’s tip: Don’t boil pesto—it dulls the color and flavor. Keep it low and gentle.) - Combine and serve.
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce until evenly coated. Finish with parsley and grated Parmesan.
Quick reminders:
- Always save pasta water—it’s your best natural thickener
- Use low heat when adding cream to avoid curdling
- Stir constantly to achieve that glossy texture
- Add pesto off the heat for bright, fresh flavor
Expert Tips for Success
Creamy pesto pasta looks fancy, but it’s all about balance and timing.
- Use good-quality pesto for authentic flavor
- Stir the sauce continuously for smooth consistency
- Don’t overcook pasta—it should hold its shape in sauce
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish
- Let the sauce rest for a minute before serving—it thickens perfectly
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper for a little kick
- Top with toasted pine nuts for a restaurant-worthy finish
If you love creamy pasta dishes, try my Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne or Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe for more flavor-packed meals that never disappoint.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile pasta pairs beautifully with simple sides and mains.
- Serve with garlic bread or toasted baguette slices
- Pair with a crisp Caesar or arugula salad
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie for a hearty spread
- Finish with extra pesto drizzle or fresh basil for presentation
It’s an ideal dish for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.
Storing and Reheating
The sauce keeps well and tastes even better the next day.
How to Store It
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Keep refrigerated once fully cooled
- Add a splash of milk or water before reheating to loosen the sauce
How to Reheat It
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of water or broth to maintain creaminess
- Avoid microwaving too long—it can separate the sauce
You’ll still get that luscious, herby flavor even after reheating.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1 cup | Calories: 410 | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Sodium: 480mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 800IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 150mg | Iron: 1mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes! Store-bought pesto works great, but if you have time, homemade pesto will make the flavor even more vibrant.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely—use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
What’s the best pasta for pesto?
Short shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle hold sauce beautifully, but spaghetti works too.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta captures everything I love about good cooking—simplicity, freshness, and flavor that feels homemade yet special. It’s quick enough for a Tuesday night but elegant enough for a dinner party.
- Always add pesto at low heat for best flavor
- Save pasta water for the perfect sauce texture
- Garnish with herbs and Parmesan for that final touch
It’s comfort food done right—green, creamy, and full of heart. Every bite reminds you that good meals don’t need to be complicated—just cooked with care.
Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Reduce heat and sprinkle in flour. Stir for 30 seconds, then gradually add heavy cream while whisking to prevent lumps.
- Stir in garlic powder, oregano, 1 tsp salt, and black pepper. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Mix in pesto sauce and reserved pasta water. Stir gently until the sauce is smooth and emulsified. Do not boil.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Add pesto off heat to preserve color and flavor.
- Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
