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10-Minute Creamy Pesto Pasta

Quick & Creamy 10-Minute Pesto Pasta That'll Make You Smile

This 10-Minute Creamy Pesto Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy evenings.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the White Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness and serves as the base for the creamy texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Flour Provides thickness; substitute with cornstarch for gluten-free.
  • 1 cup Milk Whole milk is recommended for the best results.
  • to taste Salt Enhances the overall flavor.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta Use any shape preferred, cooking according to package instructions.
  • ½ cup Pesto The star of the dish, delivering delicious herbal flavor.
Optional Adjustments
  • as needed Additional Pasta Water or Milk Use to modify sauce consistency.
  • as desired Protein/Vegetables Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or spinach.

Equipment

  • large stockpot
  • medium saucepan
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large stockpot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your preferred pasta and cook according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside in the pot.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk until combined—cook for about 2 minutes until it starts to bubble but does not brown.
  3. Gradually pour in 1 cup of whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Increase the heat to medium-high and continue whisking for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  4. Stir in about ½ cup of your favorite pesto once the white sauce has thickened to your liking. Cook for another minute on low heat to meld the flavors.
  5. Return the drained pasta to the pot and pour the creamy pesto sauce over it. Toss gently for about a minute to coat all the pasta evenly with the sauce.
  6. Serve the 10-Minute Creamy Pesto Pasta immediately while it's hot, optionally garnishing with Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or cracked black pepper.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh to maintain delightful silky texture.

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