Calling all pasta lovers! Get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort and flavor with our Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe. This recipe is a harmonious dance of sautéed onions, garlic, and velvety heavy cream, perfectly partnered with the vibrant notes of basil pesto, fresh herbs, and the irresistible charm of grated parmesan cheese.

It’s time to elevate your pasta game with this creamy, dreamy creation that will have you reaching for seconds!

Let me show you how easy this recipe is!

Primary Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing perfection)
1/2 of a large onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (pressed)
2 cups heavy cream (for velvety creaminess)
1/2 cup basil pesto (the star of Mediterranean flavor)
1/4 cup green onions (thinly sliced for a fresh crunch)
1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped for a burst of color)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (torn for fragrant delight)
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (because cheese = happiness)
1 cup halved cherry tomatoes (for juicy bursts)
12 ounces rigatoni pasta (cooked to al dente perfection)
Salt and pepper (to be the taste maestro)

Super easy instructions:

In a skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and toss in the diced onions and let them sizzle until they turn translucent.
Add the pressed garlic to the onion symphony and let them dance together for about 1 minute.
Add salt and pepper to taste and pour in the heavy cream and then the pesto. Stir until well mixed.
Let the mixture reach a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes. This is where the flavors truly intertwine and the sauce thickens up!
While the sauce is simmering, it is time to cook your Rigatoni pasta. Follow the instructions on the box (around 12 minutes of cook time)
Now it’s time to add the dynamic duo of cherry tomatoes and green onions, infusing a burst of freshness into the scene.
Sprinkle in the fresh parsley and the irresistible grated parmesan cheese.
Let everything simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together.
The pasta curtain rises! Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy pesto until pasta is fully coated and then add in your fresh basil.
Serve up this creamy delight in bowls and garnish with extra grated parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dash of cracked black pepper. Get ready to savor each spoonful!

Storage Instructions:

While this Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe is best enjoyed fresh for that velvety creaminess, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed, to bring back its creamy allure.

Variations:

Feel like getting creative? Toss in some sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even grilled chicken or sautéed prawns for added depth and protein power.

Drink Pairing:

To complement the richness of this creamy dish, pour a glass of chilled Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio. The wine’s fruity notes will dance harmoniously with the creamy pesto pasta flavors!

Looking for more pasta recipes?

You’ll love my Creamy sun-dried tomato pasta with chicken recipe.
My Spinach Feta Pasta recipe is super easy and so delicious!
Give this Tuscan Tortellini Salad recipe a try at your next BBQ!

There you have it! A Creamy Pesto Pasta recipe that’s bound to satisfy your cravings for both flavor and comfort.

Get ready to take your taste buds on a Mediterranean-inspired journey of creamy delight! Happy cooking and indulging in pasta paradise! 🍝🌿🍅🧀🍴