Pesto and pasta – a match made in heaven! The rich, creamy flavor of pesto sauce elevates even the most simple pasta dishes to new heights. And today, we’re excited to share 20 mouthwatering pesto cream sauce recipes that are sure to satisfy your pasta cravings. From classic combinations like garlic parmesan and sun-dried tomato, to bold and spicy options like arrabbiata and chipotle, there’s something for every taste bud.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of pesto cream sauces, featuring recipes that incorporate everything from herbs and spices to meat and seafood. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered.
Garlic Parmesan Pesto Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy garlic parmesan pesto cream sauce, perfect for coating fettuccine or linguine. This aromatic sauce combines the bold flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and pesto.
2. Whisk until smooth and creamy, adding salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in additional Parmesan cheese (if desired).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Cream Sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this sauce combines the savory flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and pesto with the creaminess of heavy cream.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine sun-dried tomatoes, basil leaves, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until well combined.
2. Add the pesto sauce and blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in the heavy cream. Continue blending until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Pesto Cream Sauce
This creamy sauce combines the spicy kick of arrabbiata with the rich flavor of pesto, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly made pesto (see note)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream and mayonnaise until smooth.
2. Add the pesto, garlic, and arrabbiata sauce; whisk until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparing pesto and arrabbiata sauce not included)
Lemon Basil Pesto Cream Sauce
Add a bright and refreshing twist to your pasta dishes with this Lemon Basil Pesto Cream Sauce. With its tangy lemon zest, sweet basil, and creamy sauce, it’s the perfect accompaniment for spring-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until well combined.
2. With the processor running, slowly pour in the heavy cream through the top. Process until smooth and creamy.
3. Add butter and process until melted and fully incorporated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Pesto Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy sauce featuring sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms and garlic over medium heat until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the pine nuts and cook for an additional minute.
3. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine the mushroom mixture and heavy cream. Blend until smooth.
6. Serve immediately over pasta, or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Pesto Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful spinach and artichoke pesto cream sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine spinach, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, and artichoke hearts.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly add the olive oil through the top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready in just a few minutes.
Roasted Red Pepper Pesto Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this creamy and flavorful sauce that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the richness of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss red peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred.
3. In a food processor, combine roasted red peppers, pine nuts, parsley, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Process until smooth.
4. With the processor running, slowly pour in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer sauce over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until desired consistency is reached.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Pesto Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful combination of chicken, alfredo sauce, and pesto cream. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp pesto sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken breast and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, pesto sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the creamy sauce. Toss with cooked pasta and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Cashew Pesto Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this creamy, nutty, and utterly delicious vegan pesto sauce!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cashews
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
Instructions:
1. Soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the cashews, then add them to a blender with the remaining ingredients.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
5. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready when you are.
Enjoy your Vegan Cashew Pesto Cream Sauce on pasta, pizza, or as a dip – the possibilities are endless!
Smoky Bacon Pesto Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy sauce infused with the smokiness of bacon and the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the crumbled bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the pesto and stir until well combined with the bacon.
4. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese Pesto Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this creamy and flavorful Herbed Goat Cheese Pesto Cream Sauce. This rich sauce combines the tanginess of goat cheese, the brightness of fresh herbs, and the richness of heavy cream.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz goat cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, chopped parsley, pesto, and garlic.
2. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the heavy cream and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None needed! This sauce is ready to use straight away.
Cajun Shrimp Pesto Cream Sauce
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional pesto cream sauce with the added kick of Cajun spices and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Leave the butter in the skillet.
3. Add the pesto to the skillet and stir to combine with the remaining butter. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Truffle Oil Pesto Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and aromatic truffle oil pesto cream sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, this recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the luxury of truffles.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon truffle oil
– 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pesto, heavy cream, and truffle oil.
2. Whisk until smooth and heated through over low heat (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Avocado Lime Pesto Cream Sauce
This refreshing sauce combines the creamy richness of avocado with the bright zing of lime and the herby flavor of basil, perfect for pasta, vegetables, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then blend with lime juice, basil, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! This sauce is ready to use straight from the blender or refrigerator.
Caramelized Onion Pesto Cream Sauce
This rich and flavorful sauce combines sweet caramelized onions with savory pesto and creamy heavy cream, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. In a food processor, combine the cooked onion mixture, olive oil, basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
4. With the processor running, slowly pour in the heavy cream until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Roasted Garlic Pesto Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful sauce featuring roasted garlic’s deep sweetness and a hint of nutty undertones. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap garlic cloves in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. In a food processor, combine roasted garlic, basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in heavy cream through the top. Process until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Pesto Cream Sauce
Pumpkin Sage Pesto Cream Sauce Recipe
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy sauce, featuring the warm flavors of pumpkin, sage, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine pumpkin puree, sage leaves, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in the heavy cream through the top. Continue blending until well combined.
3. Add Parmesan cheese and blend until smooth.
4. Heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Pour in the pumpkin sage pesto mixture and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Pesto Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes or pizza nights with this bold and creamy Spicy Chipotle Pesto Cream Sauce, infused with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine basil leaves, cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic, olive oil, chipotle peppers, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. If using Parmesan cheese, stir it in just before serving.
5. Cook time: 5-7 minutes, depending on blender or food processor speed.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Pesto Sauce
A rich and flavorful sauce perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, garlic, and salt. Process until the mixture forms a coarse paste.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and process until they are fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. This will help emulsify the sauce.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
White Wine Pesto Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful White Wine Pesto Cream Sauce. A perfect blend of tangy white wine, creamy heavy cream, and savory pesto, this sauce is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, white wine, and pesto. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add garlic and whisk until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 20 creamy pesto cream sauce recipes! From classic combinations like Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Mushroom to bold flavors like Spicy Arrabbiata and Smoky Bacon, there’s a recipe for every palate. Add some excitement to your meals with Sun-Dried Tomato or Roasted Red Pepper, or keep it light with Lemon Basil or Avocado Lime. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and rich or zesty and adventurous, these recipes will provide endless inspiration. So go ahead, indulge in the creamy goodness!