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Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe

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3.9 from 4 reviews

This Creamy Pesto Pasta is a luscious and comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender pasta is cooked al dente and then tossed in a rich, homemade creamy sauce infused with basil pesto and Parmesan cheese, delivering vibrant flavors with a velvety texture.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 10 ounces dried pasta

Creamy Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Flavorings

  • 1/3 cup basil pesto
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and generously season it with salt. Add the dried pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
  2. Make Roux: Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter, then add 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for about a minute until the mixture is well combined and starts to bubble, forming a roux.
  3. Add Milk and Seasonings: Slowly pour in 3 cups of whole milk, then add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Stir continuously to prevent lumps.
  4. Thicken Sauce: Cook the sauce on low to medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent burning at the bottom. The sauce will thicken and become creamy.
  5. Incorporate Pesto and Cheese: Stir in 1/3 cup basil pesto and 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully combined and the sauce is smooth.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Fold gently to coat the pasta evenly. Let them cook together for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors before serving.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, use milk alternatives like almond or oat milk and reduce butter.
  • Fresh basil can be added on top as garnish for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten free.
  • Make sure to stir the sauce continuously to avoid lumps and burning.

Find it online: https://recipeplenty.com/creamy-pesto-pasta-recipe/