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Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce

Indulge in Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce for a Cozy Dinner

This Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce is a quick and delightful meal that satisfies cravings for creamy goodness.
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Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: comfort food, Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce, Creamy Sauce, Easy Dinner, pasta, weeknight meal
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 600kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • large skillet
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 450 g Penne pasta, uncooked This pasta shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully.

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Use extra virgin for an extra layer of flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh garlic is key to a rich, aromatic base.
  • 1.5 cups Heavy cream Adds luxurious creaminess.
  • 0.5 cup Milk or half and half Use half and half for a richer taste.
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Freshly grated cheese enhances flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Chili flakes Adds a hint of heat; adjust based on your preference.
  • Salt, to taste Brings flavors together.
  • Black pepper, to taste Elevates the dish's richness.
  • 0.5 cup Pesto A good pesto ensures the sauce shines.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 450 g of uncooked penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
  • Carefully drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process.
  • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and lightly golden brown.
  • Pour in 1.5 cups of heavy cream and 0.5 cup of milk into the skillet. Whisk in 0.5 cup of pesto, 0.5 teaspoon of chili flakes, salt, black pepper, and 0.5 cup of grated parmesan cheese. Stir well and let simmer for 3-5 minutes.
  • Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, mixing to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and serve the creamy pesto pasta in warm bowls, optionally garnishing with extra parmesan cheese.

Notes

Start boiling your pasta while preparing the sauce to keep everything hot and fresh. Tasting as you go is essential for seasoning adjustments.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 600kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 100mg | Sodium: 300mg | Potassium: 400mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 500IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 300mg | Iron: 2mg