Creamy Pesto Pasta 30-Minute (Printable Version)
A fast, flavorful pasta with pesto, cream, and Parmesan. Enjoy a satisfying dish in half an hour. #pasta #pesto #quickdinner
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
1 pound penne pasta, uncooked
02 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
03 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
05 -
1/2 cup whole milk or half and half
06 -
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
07 -
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
08 -
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
09 -
1/2 cup basil pesto
# Steps:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 -
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, milk, Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer and stir continuously until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
03 -
Mix basil pesto into the sauce, stirring to combine thoroughly. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently toss until every piece is evenly coated with the sauce.
04 -
Plate the creamy pesto pasta. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
For best results, use high-quality Parmesan and fresh basil pesto. Adjust chili flakes for heat preference.