If you’re looking for a truly effortless yet irresistible dinner, this One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe is an absolute game changer. It combines tender pasta cooked right in a luscious, herb-packed pesto cream sauce all in one pot, saving you loads of time and cleanup. Each bite bursts with the rich flavors of garlic, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese, while the creamy texture wraps around every noodle, making it cozy enough for any weeknight but special enough to impress your guests. You’ll love how quick and satisfying this dish comes together without compromising on flavor or comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to this recipe’s magic. Each component plays a key role in building layers of flavor, creaminess, and a perfect al dente texture that makes this dish so memorable.
- 12 ounces dry pasta (penne or rotini): Ideal shapes for capturing sauce in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps gently cook the garlic.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
- 2 cups vegetable broth: Provides a savory base and cooks the pasta beautifully.
- 1 cup whole milk: Brings creaminess to the sauce without heaviness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Locks in that indulgent, silky texture.
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade): The herbaceous star that adds vibrant flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle warmth and bite.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, enriching taste and texture.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional): Adds juicy bursts of sweetness and a pop of color.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional): For a fresh, herbaceous garnish.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Start by warming the olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This quick step releases garlic’s savory aroma, setting the perfect flavor foundation for your creamy pesto sauce.
Step 2: Combine Liquids and Pasta
Next, pour in the vegetable broth and whole milk. Then, add your dry pasta along with salt and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to make sure the seasonings are evenly distributed. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil—it’s this process that allows the pasta to cook directly in the flavorful liquid, absorbing all those wonderful tastes.
Step 3: Simmer and Stir Frequently
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered. Be sure to stir often—every couple of minutes—to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom and to ensure an even cook. After about 10 to 12 minutes, the pasta should be tender, and most of the liquid will be absorbed, resulting in a creamy base.
Step 4: Add Cream and Pesto
Now for the magic touch: stir in the heavy cream and basil pesto sauce until fully combined and silky smooth. This step enriches the pasta, turning it into a luscious, creamy dish bursting with fresh basil flavor. It’s the heart of the One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Extras
Finally, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts beautifully into the sauce. If you want a fresh and colorful twist, gently fold in halved cherry tomatoes—this adds a juicy, slightly sweet contrast. Remove the pot from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired. Your meal is ready to serve!
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top bring a bright herbal note and a splash of color. A little extra grated Parmesan adds nutty richness and a subtle bite that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. For a little texture contrast, a handful of toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes also work wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This creamy pesto pasta shines on its own but pairs delightfully with crisp green salads tossed in lemon vinaigrette for balance. A side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes enhances the meal with freshness and more layers of flavor. Garlic bread is another classic companion that soaks up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta in shallow bowls for a cozy, rustic feel that encourages digging in. For a fun twist, spoon it into colorful mini cast-iron skillets or small ramekins and broil briefly to gratinate the cheese topping. You can also turn leftovers into baked pesto pasta cups by spooning them into muffin tins and baking for a crispy, portable treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier. Just give them a good stir before reheating to reincorporate the creamy sauce.
Freezing
This pasta doesn’t freeze as well as it loses some creaminess upon thawing, but if you must, place leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating to preserve as much texture and flavor as possible.
Reheating
Reheat your creamy pesto pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently to keep the sauce smooth and creamy, restoring that fresh-from-the-pot taste.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. Keep in mind that gluten-free pasta may cook a little differently, so watch your simmer time closely to avoid overcooking.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream?
While heavy cream adds richness and thickness, you can replace it with extra whole milk for a lighter sauce. The texture will be less creamy but still delicious, perfect if you want to cut down on calories.
Can I make homemade pesto for this dish?
Yes! Homemade pesto adds incredible freshness and depth. Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon for a vibrant sauce that elevates this One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe even further.
What type of pasta works best?
Penne, rotini, or any sturdy shape that holds sauce well are great options. Avoid very thin pastas like angel hair, as they may overcook during the simmering process.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu make fantastic protein additions. Cook them separately and toss into the finished pasta for a heartier meal.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe is a true lifesaver when you want something quick, comforting, and full of flavor without fuss. The convenience of cooking everything in one pot means less time cleaning and more time enjoying a delicious meal with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover how simple ingredients come together to create something spectacular.
Print
One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and delicious one pot creamy pesto pasta recipe perfect for weeknight dinners. This Italian-inspired dish combines tender pasta cooked directly in a flavorful broth and milk mixture, then finished with pesto, cream, Parmesan cheese, and optional cherry tomatoes for a rich and comforting meal ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 12 ounces dry pasta such as penne or rotini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauces and Cheese
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnishes
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Garlic: In a large deep skillet or pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the vegetable broth and whole milk, then add the dry pasta along with salt and black pepper. Stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered. Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking, cooking for about 10 to 12 minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Incorporate Cream and Pesto: Stir in the heavy cream and basil pesto until the sauce becomes creamy and well combined, coating the pasta evenly.
- Add Cheese and Optional Tomatoes: Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and, if using, the halved cherry tomatoes. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pot from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired, and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Stir frequently throughout cooking to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with extra milk; however, the sauce will be thinner.
- Using store-bought pesto saves time, but homemade pesto can elevate the flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes add a fresh burst of color and taste but are optional.
