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–+ servings
Creamy pesto sauce pasta

Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta: Quick Comfort Done Right

A quick and delightful creamy pesto sauce pasta recipe that elevates weeknight dinners with herbaceous flavors and comforting richness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Penne Pasta Feel free to swap with any pasta shape you enjoy!
  • 1 tbsp Salt Adjust to your taste preference.
For the Sauce
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Can be replaced with any bell pepper or zucchini.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Substitute with yellow onions or shallots if desired.
  • 1 cup Pesto Sauce Use store-bought or homemade for fresh taste.
  • 0.5 cup Reserved Pasta Water Vital for emulsifying the sauce.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (35%) Use half-and-half or non-dairy alternative for a lighter dish.
  • 1 tbsp All-purpose Flour Optional; can use cornstarch mixed with water.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used instead.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Fresh oregano is a delightful substitute.
  • 0.25 cup Freshly Chopped Parsley Basil can be swapped for a different twist.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper For milder flavor, white pepper can be used.
  • 2 tbsp Grated Parmesan Optional; nutritional yeast can be used for vegan option.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced green bell pepper and red onion, seasoning with a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 10 minutes until golden and caramelized.
  2. Stir in pesto sauce and reserved pasta water, bring to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Whisk together all-purpose flour with a bit of water to form a slurry, pour into the pan, followed by heavy cream. Cook for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring until thickened.
  4. Add garlic powder, dried oregano, parsley, and black pepper. Stir well and adjust seasoning.
  5. Toss in cooked penne pasta, simmer for another 5 minutes, letting the pasta absorb the sauce.
  6. Plate the creamy pesto sauce pasta, garnish with grated Parmesan and extra parsley, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Perfect for weeknight dinners, customize with added veggies or proteins.

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