Creamy Pesto Penne Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s as comforting as it is vibrant, then you’re going to love this Creamy Pesto Penne. It’s an irresistible pasta recipe where every bite brings together the bright herbaceousness of fresh pesto, the dreamy richness of cream, and the nutty tang of parmesan, all wrapped around perfectly cooked penne. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing centerpiece, this Creamy Pesto Penne effortlessly blends simplicity and indulgence in one bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but carefully chosen to create a harmonious balance of flavors, texture, and color in your Creamy Pesto Penne. Each one plays its part perfectly, building layers of taste that feel both homey and special.

• 300 g penne: The sturdy shape holds the luscious sauce beautifully, making every forkful satisfying.
• 3 tbsp pesto: Bursting with fresh basil, pine nuts, and garlic, pesto is the green heart of this dish.
• 1/2 cup cream: Adds that silky, rich texture that transforms the pesto into a delicious sauce.
• 1/4 cup parmesan: This sharp, savory cheese brings depth and a pleasant saltiness to balance the cream.
• Salt + pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and round out all the flavors.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the penne until it’s al dente — firm but tender to the bite. This texture is ideal because it allows the sauce to cling to every piece without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain the penne well to avoid watering down the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Pesto Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the pesto, cream, and parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the mixture transforms into a smooth, luscious sauce. The cream softens the intensity of the pesto while parmesan heightens the savory notes, making sauce that’s truly velvety and flavorful.

Step 3: Toss Penne with Sauce

Add the warm, drained penne to your bowl of sauce and toss everything together. The heat from the pasta will help the sauce coat each piece evenly. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste — this final touch elevates the dish and perfectly balances the creaminess.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Penne

Garnishes

To add a little extra wow factor, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan and a few torn basil leaves on top before serving. Toasted pine nuts can also give a lovely crunch and boost the pesto’s flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Keep it simple with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the dish’s richness. Roasted cherry tomatoes or grilled zucchini also make excellent, colorful companions that add freshness and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not turn your Creamy Pesto Penne into a layered pasta bake? Simply spread the mixture in a baking dish, top with extra parmesan, and broil for a few minutes until golden and bubbly. For a lighter option, serve it chilled as a flavorful pasta salad with a drizzle of olive oil.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Creamy Pesto Penne keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Store it promptly once cooled to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture and prevent the pasta from drying out.

Freezing

While freezing pasta with cream sauces isn’t always ideal, you can freeze this dish if necessary. Use a suitable container and leave a little room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results, but be prepared for a slight change in texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, and adding a splash of cream or milk to revive that gorgeous sauce. Microwaving is convenient but do it in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pesto for Creamy Pesto Penne?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto can elevate the dish even more with fresh ingredients and personalized seasoning. Just ensure it’s well balanced between basil, nuts, cheese, and olive oil.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream and parmesan?

You can substitute coconut cream or cashew cream for the dairy cream, and nutritional yeast makes a great parmesan substitute to keep it creamy and flavorful for dairy-free diets.

How long does it take to make this dish?

From start to finish, the Creamy Pesto Penne can be ready in about 25 minutes, making it perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.

Can I add proteins like chicken or shrimp?

Definitely! Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp pairs wonderfully with the creamy pesto sauce, turning the dish into a heartier meal without overpowering the delicate flavors.

What type of pesto works best?

Traditional basil pesto works beautifully, but you can experiment with sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for a twist. Just adjust seasoning to suit the pesto’s intensity.

Final Thoughts

Making this Creamy Pesto Penne is like giving yourself a warm, flavorful hug on a plate. It’s simple to prepare yet indulgently satisfying, perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this little culinary joy with your friends and family!