Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta (One Pot Easy Dinner Recipe)
This Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a quick and comforting one-pan meal made with tender penne, fresh vegetables, and a rich, herby cream sauce. Perfect for busy days, it comes together in minutes while still tasting restaurant-quality, making it an easy yet satisfying dinner for the whole family.
Ingredients
- 300 g penne pasta, cooked al dente
- 2 tsp salt, divided
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 red onion, finely diced
- 6 tbsp pesto sauce
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- 2 cup heavy cream
- 1½ tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, optional for topping
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon salt. Cook the penne until just tender but still firm. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bell pepper, red onion, and the remaining salt. Cook slowly for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness. This step builds the base flavor of the dish.
Add the Pesto
- Stir the pesto sauce into the vegetables and pour in the reserved pasta water. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes until the mixture looks slightly glossy and well combined.
Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix the flour with a little warm water until smooth. Remove the pan from heat and slowly stir in the slurry. Place the pan back on medium heat and pour in the heavy cream. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens into a silky texture.
Season the Sauce
- Add garlic powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Combine and Finish
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and gently toss until every piece is coated. Let it cook together for 3–5 minutes so the flavors fully blend.
Serve
- Serve the creamy pesto pasta warm. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and extra parsley for a fresh, elegant finish. This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a light side salad.
Notes
- Use good-quality pesto for the best flavor — homemade or fresh store-bought works best.
- Cook pasta al dente so it holds its shape in the creamy sauce.
- Always mix flour with water before adding to prevent lumps.
- Simmer gently after adding cream; high heat can split the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated with a splash of milk.