Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta: Your New Favorite One-Pot Delight

Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a quick and nourishing one-pot meal featuring aromatic basil pesto and creamy goodness.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 580

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz Penne Pasta Cook al dente for the best texture.

For the Vegetables

1 medium Green Bell Pepper Substitute with zucchini or spinach if desired.
1 medium Red Onion Yellow onion can be used as a substitute.

For the Sauce

1 cup Pesto Sauce Store-bought or homemade.
1 cup Heavy Cream (35%) Substitute with half-and-half or non-dairy alternative.
2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour Cornstarch is a gluten-free alternative.
1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used instead.
1 tsp Dried Oregano Fresh oregano can be substituted.

For Finishing Touches

2 tbsp Freshly Chopped Parsley Can use basil or chives instead.
to taste Black Pepper Opt for white pepper for a milder flavor.
optional Grated Parmesan Nutritional yeast works for a dairy-free option.

For the Final Touch

reserved water Pasta Water Use for adjusting sauce consistency.

Equipment

large skillet
Small bowl

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add 1 diced green bell pepper and 1 sliced red onion with 1 teaspoon salt. Sauté for about 10 minutes until softened and caramelized.
Stir in your choice of pesto sauce along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Whisk together 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with warm water until smooth. Gradually stir into the pesto mixture, then add 1 cup of heavy cream. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until thickened.
Mix in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and sprinkle in black pepper. Stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley.
Add cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce and toss gently. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Plate the creamy pesto pasta and optionally top with freshly grated Parmesan and extra parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 580kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 15gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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