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Ultra-creamy one-pot pesto pasta in a skillet, coated in rich basil pesto sauce and topped with Parmesan and fresh basil leaves.

Ultra-Creamy One-Pot Pesto Pasta Everyone Will Love

Ultra-Creamy One-Pot Pesto Pasta is a rich, comforting pasta dish made by cooking everything in a single pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. The sauce is silky and herbaceous, blending creamy texture with fresh basil pesto. It is an easy, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • ½ pound pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¾ cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream
  • ½ cup basil pesto
  • ½ teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese or vegan Parmesan
  • fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, add the chopped onion, and cook until soft and translucent, then stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
  2. Add the dry pasta and vegetable broth to the pot, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook while stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  3. Lower the heat, stir in the cream and pesto until smooth and creamy, season with salt, black pepper, and chili flakes, then let it rest for one minute before serving.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, use plant-based cream and dairy-free pesto
  • Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition
  • Adjust sauce thickness with a splash of broth if needed
  • Best served warm and garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan