Creamy Pesto Pasta

Prep: 10 mins

Cook: 15 mins

Servings: 4

Category: Lunch

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (e.g., penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 1/2 cup prepared pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: cherry tomatoes or pine nuts for garnish

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 500
Total Fat: 28g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 12g

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and add the pesto, stirring until fully combined with the cream.
  4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy pesto sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue tossing until the cheese melts and the pasta is evenly coated.
  6. Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of pine nuts if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy pesto pasta!