Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this Pesto Cream Sauce, a perfect topping for your favorite pasta dishes. With its velvety texture and vibrant flavor, this sauce brings together the earthy tones of basil pesto and the luscious creaminess of heavy whipping cream. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy dinner party, this sauce takes only a few minutes to prepare. Remember, for an authentic thick and luxurious sauce, use heavy cream instead of half-and-half. Serve this delightful blend of flavors over your choice of pasta for a delectable meal that everyone will adore.
4
Servings
213
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
heavy whipping cream
3/4 cup (none)
water
1/4 cup (none)
butter
2 tablespoons (none)
prepared pesto sauce
1/4 cup (none)
garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon (none)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Parmesan cheese, shredded
1/2 cup (shredded)
Instructions
1
In a small, heavy saucepan, combine the heavy whipping cream and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring gently until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2
Reduce the heat to low, and add the butter, pesto sauce, garlic powder, and salt. Stir continuously and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3
Gradually stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese, continuing to cook until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce reaches a smooth consistency.
4
Remove from heat and serve immediately over your favorite pasta, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition Information
17
Fat
4.5
Carbs
7.25
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce?
It is a rich and velvety sauce that combines the earthy flavors of basil pesto with the luscious creaminess of heavy whipping cream and Parmesan cheese.
What are the main ingredients for this sauce?
The main ingredients are heavy whipping cream, water, butter, prepared pesto sauce, garlic powder, salt, and shredded Parmesan cheese.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
For an authentic thick and luxurious texture, it is recommended to use heavy whipping cream rather than half-and-half.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
How long does it take to prepare?
The sauce is very quick to make, taking only about 5 to 10 minutes of cooking time.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 213 calories.
How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
Heat the cream and water over medium heat until hot but not boiling, then reduce the heat to low before adding other ingredients.
What type of pesto should I use?
You can use any high-quality prepared pesto sauce or even a homemade version.
When should I add the Parmesan cheese?
Gradually stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese after the other ingredients have simmered for about 5 minutes.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 17 grams of fat in each serving of this sauce.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
The base ingredients are gluten-free, but always check the label of your prepared pesto sauce to ensure it contains no gluten additives.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this pesto cream sauce?
Freezing is not recommended as the cream and cheese may separate and change texture upon thawing.
How do I reheat the sauce?
Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
What pasta pairs best with this sauce?
This sauce works beautifully with fettuccine, penne, rotini, or even farfalle.
Can I add extra garlic?
Yes, you can increase the garlic powder or add fresh minced garlic for a more intense flavor.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each serving provides about 7.25 grams of protein.
Can I use milk instead of water?
Yes, substituting milk for the water will result in an even richer and creamier sauce.
Should I use shredded or grated Parmesan?
Shredded Parmesan is preferred as it melts more evenly into the sauce for a smoother consistency.
Is this sauce suitable for a keto diet?
With 4.5 grams of carbohydrates and a high fat content, this sauce is generally considered keto-friendly.
Can I add vegetables to this sauce?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes are great additions that complement the pesto flavor.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
Based on the ingredients listed, the fiber content is negligible.
Can I add protein like chicken or shrimp?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp pair perfectly with this creamy pesto profile.
How do I know when the sauce is done?
The sauce is ready once the Parmesan cheese has fully melted and the mixture has reached a smooth, uniform consistency.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The recipe ingredients do not include any added sugars.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor, but margarine can be used if necessary.
What can I use if I don't have garlic powder?
You can substitute one small clove of fresh minced garlic for the 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
How much pesto is required?
You will need 1/4 cup of prepared pesto sauce.
Is this sauce spicy?
No, the sauce is mild and savory, though you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.
Can I double this recipe for a party?
Yes, the recipe scales up easily by doubling all the ingredient amounts.