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A vibrant bowl of creamy pesto pasta with bright green pesto sauce coating short pasta, topped with fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan, and cherry tomatoes arranged artfully, all on a rustic wooden table styled with a sprig of basil and a drizzle of olive oil.

Creamy Pesto One Pot Pasta Delight

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A quick and flavorful one pot creamy pesto pasta perfect for busy weeknights, combining fresh basil pesto, tender pasta, and melty cheese in a single pot.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 1 cup homemade or store-bought basil pesto
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until slightly softened, about 2 minutes.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and pesto, stirring until well combined and heated through.
  4. Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Mix in cooked pasta until evenly coated with the sauce.
  6. Serve immediately garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • You can substitute heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative for lighter options.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently on the stove.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300 g)
  • Calories: 520 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 68 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg