Creamy Pesto Pasta Quick

Silky pesto-coated pasta with a creamy sauce ready in just ten minutes makes dinner a comforting and flavorful breeze any night you want something quick yet satisfying. This creamy pesto pasta balances the fresh herbaceousness of basil pesto with a smooth, rich sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta.

I first made this on a hectic weeknight when I had barely any time and ingredients and now it’s a go-to that never disappoints. The creamy texture paired with vibrant pesto flavors always feels like a little treat without fuss.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: melts smoothly to create the base of the sauce for richness
• Plain flour: is key for thickening choose one that’s fresh so the sauce has a clean taste
• Whole milk: adds creaminess and body whole milk works best here for that luscious texture
• Fine sea salt: enhances the flavor adjust carefully for seasoning balance
• Prepared basil pesto: saves time and delivers fresh herb and nutty notes pick one with good-quality basil and pine nuts for best results
• Dried pasta: turns out perfectly al dente when cooked according to package instructions opt for a shape like fusilli or penne that holds onto sauce well
• Reserved pasta water or extra milk: helps adjust sauce consistency for silky coating without being too thick or thin

Instructions

Creamy Pesto Pasta Quick:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil

Cook pasta:

Add the dried pasta to the boiling water and cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Before draining reserve a small cup of the pasta water for later use if you want a looser sauce. Drain the pasta well once done

Melt the butter and make a roux:

In a medium saucepan set over medium heat melt the unsalted butter completely. Whisk in the plain flour gradually to form a smooth paste. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour flavor and form a roux which will thicken the sauce nicely

Add milk and thicken the sauce:

Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously to keep the sauce smooth. Turn the heat up to medium-high and cook the mixture until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. At this point season with fine sea salt to taste

Combine with pesto:

Stir the prepared basil pesto into the thickened white sauce thoroughly until the sauce is evenly green and creamy. Remove the pan from heat. If the sauce seems too thick loosen it by stirring in a splash of the reserved pasta water or extra milk until it’s your preferred consistency

Mix pasta and sauce:

Return the drained pasta to its cooking pot or a large bowl. Pour the creamy pesto sauce over it and toss gently but thoroughly until every piece is coated in the luscious sauce

Serve immediately with extras if you like:

Plate the pasta and serve straight away. Consider adding cooked chicken shrimp fresh spinach sun-dried tomatoes or a sprinkle of cheese to customize your meal

One of my favorite things about this dish is how the buttery white sauce mellowed with pesto brings out the freshest basil notes without overpowering the pasta. It’s a dish that reminds me of cozy nights when my family gathers around the table for a simple but satisfying homemade comfort meal.

Storage Tips

Store leftover creamy pesto pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat warm gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and bring back its silky texture. Avoid microwave reheating without adding liquid as the sauce can dry out and separate.

Ingredient Substitutions

If whole milk is unavailable you can substitute with half and half or a mild cream for extra richness or use a plant-based milk like oat or cashew for a dairy-free version. To replace butter olive oil works but the sauce will be less creamy. Fresh homemade pesto can be used if you have time just blend fresh basil garlic pine nuts Parmesan and olive oil to taste.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy pesto pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad lightly dressed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes for contrast. Adding grilled chicken sautéed shrimp or browned tofu can make it more substantial as a main dish. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan or toasted pine nuts for added texture.

This creamy pesto pasta is a quick and versatile meal that never disappoints. With simple tips and customizable options it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Any dried pasta like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti works well, as these shapes hold the creamy sauce effectively.

→ Can I adjust the sauce thickness?

Yes, use reserved pasta water or a splash of milk to thin the sauce to your preferred consistency.

→ Is it possible to add extra flavors?

Absolutely, ingredients like fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, cheese, or cooked protein can enrich the dish.

→ How do I avoid lumps in the sauce?

Whisk continuously while adding milk to the roux and cook until smooth and thickened to prevent lumps.

→ Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

The sauce is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be gently reheated, adding milk or water to restore smoothness.