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Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta

Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta: Quick Comfort Food Bliss

Indulge in this Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta for a quick and delightful weeknight meal that bursts with homemade comfort.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Penne Pasta A classic choice that perfectly holds the creamy sauce.
  • 1 tsp Salt Enhances the flavor; add to the cooking water.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Pesto Sauce Homemade or store-bought for convenience.
  • 0.5 cup Reserved Pasta Water Helps to achieve the desired consistency.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (35%) Gives it that luscious, creamy texture.
  • 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour Thickens the sauce beautifully.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Adds depth; fresh garlic can be used for extra punch.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Brings a wonderful herby aroma.
  • 0.25 cup Freshly Chopped Parsley Adds a fresh touch as a garnish.
For the Garnish
  • 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan Optional topping that adds a delicious finishing touch.
  • to taste Black Pepper For seasoning; adjust according to your taste.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Pot
  • small bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced green bell pepper and red onion with a teaspoon of salt, stirring occasionally. Sauté for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and translucent.
  2. Once your veggies are ready, stir in the pesto sauce along with ½ cup of reserved pasta water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with a few tablespoons of warm water to form a slurry. Gradually pour this slurry into the skillet, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Next, add 1 cup of heavy cream to the pan and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and fresh chopped parsley, stirring well to combine. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as needed.
  5. Once your penne pasta is cooked al dente, drain it before adding it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together for about 5 minutes over low heat.
  6. Carefully plate the creamy pesto sauce pasta, optionally topping with grated Parmesan cheese and extra parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 62gProtein: 14gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days; it can also be frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to restore creaminess.

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