Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe) Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe) is it. It’s a celebration of vibrant bell peppers and fragrant pesto, all pulled together with a silky, luxurious cream sauce that clings lovingly to perfectly cooked penne. This recipe is not only incredibly simple to whip up but delivers layers of flavor that will have you reaching for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this one pot wonder is here to make pasta nights unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are refreshingly simple but each plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your pasta. They come together effortlessly, and the magic lies in how you combine them.

• 300 g penne pasta (cooked al dente): The ideal base, penne’s ridged shape holds onto the creamy pesto sauce perfectly.
• 2 tsp salt (divided): Essential for seasoning both the pasta water and vegetables, enhancing every bite.
• 1 green bell pepper (diced): Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant green color that brightens the dish.
• 1 red onion (diced): Brings subtle sweetness and depth once caramelized.
• 6 tbsp pesto sauce: Bursts of fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts that infuse each mouthful with garden-fresh flavor.
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water: The secret ingredient full of starch that helps thicken your sauce naturally.
• 2 cups heavy cream (35%): Creates the luscious, velvety backbone of the sauce.
• 1 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce and ensure it clings beautifully to every piece of pasta.
• 1 tbsp garlic powder: Enhances the flavor with warm, mellow garlic tones without overpowering the dish.
• 1 tbsp dried oregano: Adds a hint of herbal earthiness that complements the pesto perfectly.
• Freshly chopped parsley (a handful): Brings a fresh, bright finish and adds lovely visual contrast.
• 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle spicy kick and balances the creaminess.
• Grated Parmesan for topping (optional): For an extra cheesy, salty pop that makes each bite irresistible.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating a large pan over medium heat and adding the diced green bell pepper and red onion with 1 tsp salt. This step is where you build deep flavor, so take your time. Allow the vegetables to soften and caramelize gently over about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The slow cooking brings out natural sweetness and makes the whole dish sing.

Step 2: Prepare the Pesto Sauce

Once your vegetables are tender and golden, add the pesto sauce along with the reserved pasta water. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and concentrates the flavors, while the starch from the pasta water ensures a smooth, glossy finish.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base

In a small bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour with a bit of warm water until smooth to form a slurry. Remove the pan from heat and slowly stir this in to avoid lumps. Return the pan to medium heat and pour in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to gently simmer for 5 to 10 minutes while stirring frequently—this thickens the sauce and gives it that luscious, silky texture you’re craving.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Now it’s time to add the garlic powder, dried oregano, freshly chopped parsley, and black pepper to the sauce. Stir well and taste, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. This seasoning blend elevates the pesto and cream, bringing complexity and freshness to every forkful.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, fold in your cooked penne pasta and let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes. This allows the pasta to soak up the heavenly sauce, marrying all the flavors and ensuring every bite is rich, creamy, and perfectly seasoned.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Dish up your creamy pesto pasta onto plates or bowls, and if you like, sprinkle over some freshly grated Parmesan and extra parsley for that final touch. Each mouthful is a deliciously comforting reminder of why this Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe) is a true kitchen favorite.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe)

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can take your presentation from everyday to fabulous. Fresh parsley adds a bright splash of green and a subtle herbaceous note, while a light dusting of grated Parmesan introduces a salty, umami richness that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. A grind of black pepper on top can also add a gentle kick and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This pasta stands out on its own but pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or some garlic roasted vegetables adds a refreshing balance. Crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia can be fantastic for mopping up every last bit of that decadent sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun and different twist, serve this dish family-style in a large rustic bowl so everyone can dive in together. You could also prep individual servings in cute mini cast-iron skillets to keep it warm and impress guests. Drizzling a little extra olive oil with fresh basil leaves on top before serving can make the dish look gourmet and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken after chilling, but it’s easy to loosen with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water when reheating.

Freezing

Freezing this pasta isn’t ideal because the cream-based sauce can separate when thawed, resulting in a slightly grainy texture. If you must freeze, place leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month and thaw slowly in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a little milk or reserved pasta water to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent the sauce from curdling. Taking your time here helps maintain that luscious texture you fell in love with.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully because it holds the sauce well, feel free to experiment with fusilli, rotini, or farfalle. Just be sure to cook your pasta al dente for the best texture.

Is there a way to make this dish vegan?

You can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream sauce and use a vegan pesto. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy note. The flavors will shift slightly but still be delicious.

Can I make the pesto from scratch?

Definitely! Homemade pesto made with fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and olive oil adds an impressive fresh flavor. It’s an easy way to elevate the Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe) even more.

What if I don’t have all-purpose flour for thickening?

You can use cornstarch as a gluten-free alternative, making a slurry with cold water before adding it to the sauce. Just remember cornstarch thickens differently, so add it gradually to get the right consistency.

How can I add protein to this meal?

Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy tofu cubes work brilliantly. Add them after your sauce has thickened to warm through without losing their texture or flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (Best Easy One Pot Recipe) isn’t just dinner; it’s a little celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something spectacular. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding friends, give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy it is to make and how deeply satisfying every bite feels. Trust me, it’s soon going to be one of your go-to pasta dishes that brings comfort and joy in every creamy forkful.

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