This one-pan Creamy Penne Pesto Pasta is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, creating a creamy pesto pasta recipe that is easy, comforting, and ready fast.
Pesto Pasta
This creamy penne pesto pasta is the kind of meal that makes dinner feel simple again. It comes together in one pan with just a handful of ingredients, yet it tastes rich, cozy, and satisfying. If you love easy pasta dinners, this recipe is a great option for busy nights when you want something homemade without spending a long time in the kitchen.
Comfort food often brings to mind casseroles, mashed potatoes, or a classic Sunday roast, but this creamy pesto pasta belongs in that same category. It is warm, cheesy, fragrant with basil pesto, and finished with cream and parmesan for a smooth sauce that clings beautifully to the penne. The best part is that the pasta cooks in the same pot as the broth, wine, and pesto, so every bite is full of flavor.
One-pan pasta recipes can be a little more delicate than other one-pot meals because the balance of pasta and liquid matters. Too much liquid can make the sauce thin, while too little can leave the pasta undercooked. This recipe keeps things straightforward by using a reliable ratio of chicken stock, white wine, pesto, and dry penne. As the pasta simmers, it absorbs the savory liquid and releases starch, helping create a naturally creamy sauce before the heavy cream and parmesan are added.
Ingredients for the Penne Pesto Pasta
The pasta and creamy pesto sauce cook together in one pot, which gives the dish a deeper flavor than simply stirring sauce into cooked pasta. Here is what you will need to make this easy penne pesto pasta recipe:
- Liquid ingredients: Good-quality chicken stock, white wine, basil pesto, and heavy cream create the base of the sauce.
- Penne pasta: Use your favorite dry penne. Barilla Gluten Free Penne was used for this version.
- Parmesan: A good-quality parmesan or asiago gives the sauce a salty, cheesy finish.
- Seasonings: Add fresh basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste at the end.
How to Make Penne Pesto Pasta
To make this creamy pesto pasta, start by adding the chicken broth, white wine, and basil pesto to a large pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then stir in the dry penne. Cover the pot, reduce the heat, and simmer according to the pasta package directions. Most penne varieties will take about 7 to 10 minutes, but the exact time can vary by brand and whether you are using gluten-free pasta.
Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks so it does not stick to the bottom of the pot. Once the penne is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Finish with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and fresh basil to taste.
What Basil Pesto Should I Use for Creamy Pesto Pasta?
You can use any basil pesto you enjoy. Both store-bought pesto and homemade pesto work well in this recipe. If you follow a gluten-free diet, check the label carefully before buying. Mezzetta pesto and DeLallo pesto are mentioned as gluten-free options, though availability may vary by store.
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Yes, you can use another pasta shape, but the cooking time may change. Short, sturdy pasta shapes are the best choice because they hold up well as they simmer in the sauce. If you substitute a different pasta, check it often and adjust the cooking time as needed so it becomes tender without overcooking.
Can I Substitute the White Wine in This Creamy Pesto Pasta?
Yes. If you do not keep white wine on hand or prefer not to cook with it, you can replace it with additional chicken broth or vegetable broth. The flavor will be slightly different, but the pasta will still cook properly and the sauce will remain creamy and flavorful.
Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Pasta
- Barilla Gluten-Free Penne was used for this recipe, and 8 minutes was the right cooking time. Always read the package directions for the pasta you are using and adjust as needed.
- Green basil pesto gives this dish its classic flavor, but sun-dried tomato pesto or a similar variety can also work.
- Store-bought pesto is convenient, while homemade pesto can add a fresh, vibrant flavor.
- Stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking and help the sauce cook evenly.
- Add the cream and parmesan after the pasta is al dente so the sauce stays smooth and rich.
More Quick Pasta Dinners:
- Cheesy Chili Mac
- One-Pan Cheesy Sausage Pasta
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Easy Taco Mac
Get the Recipe:
One Pan Creamy Penne Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 3/4 cup basil pesto
- 4 cups dry penne, one 12 ounce box
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup parmesan
- Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and basil to taste
Instructions
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In a large pot, bring the chicken stock, white wine, and basil pesto to a boil.
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Add the penne and cover the pot. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Check the pasta for an al dente texture. Remove from the heat, then stir in the heavy cream, parmesan, and seasonings to taste.
Notes
- Read the cooking time on the specific pasta you are using and adjust the simmering time as needed.
Calories: 429kcal,
Carbohydrates: 30g,
Protein: 13g,
Fat: 23g,
Saturated Fat: 10g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 15g,
Cholesterol: 42mg,
Sodium: 292mg,
Fiber: 2g,
Sugar: 2g