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Quick Creamy Pesto Pasta in 20 Minutes

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This quick creamy pesto pasta is a 20-minute weeknight hero, featuring a luscious, velvety sauce made with simple pantry ingredients. It’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for busy nights when you need real food fast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) short pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle)
  • ¾ cup (180g) basil pesto (refrigerated or jarred)
  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • ½ cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup (120ml) reserved pasta water
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon juice, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta (10-12 minutes): Fill a large pot with water, salt generously, and bring to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 1 minute less than package directions.
  2. Reserve the Pasta Water (30 seconds): Before draining, scoop out about 1 cup of starchy pasta water and set aside.
  3. Drain the Pasta (10 seconds): Drain pasta in a colander. Do not rinse.
  4. Start the Creamy Base (2 minutes): Place a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add heavy cream and warm gently for about 1 minute, without boiling.
  5. Add the Pesto (1 minute): Stir in basil pesto and cook for 30 seconds until well blended.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce (1 minute): Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated.
  7. Add the Cheese and Pasta Water (1 minute): Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese. Gradually add reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, tossing until the sauce is loose and silky (about ½ cup total).
  8. Season and Serve (30 seconds): Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Add optional red pepper flakes or lemon juice if desired. Toss once more and serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t overcook the pasta; cook it al dente. Use low heat for the sauce to prevent curdling. The starchy pasta water is key for a silky sauce. Grate your own Parmesan for best melting and flavor. Serve immediately for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pesto pasta, quick pasta recipe, 20 minute dinner, easy weeknight meal, basil pesto pasta

Find it online: https://chloeplate.com/quick-creamy-pesto-pasta-in-20-minutes/