This creamy pesto pasta is a quick, flavorful dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. With a rich, velvety sauce, fresh garlic, and a punch of pesto, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side for a big gathering. Easy, delicious, and full of flavor—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Keyword creamy pesto pasta
Prep Time 5 minutesminutes
Cook Time 10 minutesminutes
Total Time 15 minutesminutes
Servings 4People
Ingredients
250gpastaI used bow-tie
2cupswhipping cream
1cupmilk
2tbspbutter
2tbspflour
1minced garlic clove
2tbsppesto
1/4cupParmesan cheese
Salt and black pepperto taste
Instructions
Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook according to the package instructions.
While the pasta is cooking, start the sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter.
Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the flour.
Stir the flour into the butter, then pour in the whipping cream and milk. Mix well.
Add salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
Stir in the pesto.
When the pasta is done, drain it and add it to the sauce.
Mix well and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
Notes
Pasta choice: Bow-tie works great, but penne, fusilli, or farfalle are also delicious.
Adjust creaminess: Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.
Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor; pre-grated cheese works too.
Make ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat gently before adding freshly cooked pasta.
Add-ins: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with this pasta.
Serving tip: Let the pasta sit a few minutes in the sauce before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.