Pesto Cream Sauce Recipe

This rich and dreamy Pesto Cream Sauce is a lifesaver for busy nights or those times when you crave something a little extra special. It’s the perfect marriage of fragrant basil pesto, silky cream, and savory parmesan, coming together in minutes for a sauce that transforms any pasta, grilled chicken, or roasted veggies into something truly memorable. If you love bold flavors wrapped in a velvety hug, you’re absolutely going to adore this recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—every ingredient pulls its weight to create the luscious, vibrant character of Pesto Cream Sauce. Let’s break down why each one is so important and how it helps the sauce shine.

• Heavy cream: Adds the luxurious base and velvet-smooth texture that ties all the flavors together.
• Water: Keeps the sauce from being too thick or heavy, creating the perfect creamy consistency that glides over pasta.
• Unsalted butter: Deepens the richness and gives a glossy finish; using unsalted lets you control seasoning.
• Pesto sauce: Bursts with basil flavor, garlicky notes, and that unmistakable green color—don’t be shy about using a pesto you love.
• Shredded parmesan: Melts in for a nutty, salty kick and thickens the sauce just enough.
• Salt and pepper: Taste for seasoning, especially since different pestos vary in saltiness—adjust to your liking.

How to Make Pesto Cream Sauce

Step 1: Simmer the Cream and Water

Grab your favorite large skillet and pour in the heavy cream along with the water. Set the skillet over medium heat and gently bring the mixture to a soft simmer. This gentle warm-up is important—it ensures your sauce becomes creamy, not scorched. The combination of cream and water creates a base that’s indulgent but not overly heavy, perfect for carrying all those pesto aromatics.

Step 2: Add Butter and Pesto

Once the cream mixture is just steamy, add the unsalted butter and dollops of vibrant pesto. Give it all a gentle stir, letting the butter melt completely and the pesto swirl throughout until the sauce turns a glorious green. Lower the heat and keep stirring for about five minutes, so everything melds together—your kitchen will smell incredible at this point!

Step 3: Stir in Parmesan

Sprinkle in your shredded parmesan cheese and continue cooking for another two minutes. The cheese will melt into the sauce, adding a touch of nuttiness and helping the Pesto Cream Sauce thicken just right. Taste and adjust for salt and pepper if needed—some pestos can be salty enough already.

Step 4: Mix with Pasta and Serve

If you love pasta, now’s the best part: toss your cooked pasta straight into the skillet and gently fold everything together, letting the sauce coat every nook and cranny. Or keep things versatile and drizzle over grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even spoon onto gnocchi for an instant flavor upgrade. Serve immediately and savor every creamy bite!

How to Serve Pesto Cream Sauce

Garnishes

Take your Pesto Cream Sauce to the next level with a final sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan, a scatter of toasted pine nuts, or a handful of torn basil leaves for flair and freshness. A drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of cracked black pepper adds just a bit of sparkle to the finished dish.

Side Dishes

This sauce pairs perfectly with simple, light sides that can soak up every bit of goodness—think crusty bread, a bright arugula salad with lemon, or even roasted asparagus. It’s equally delicious served alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a meal that feels like pure comfort but takes hardly any effort.

Creative Ways to Present

Pesto Cream Sauce is endlessly versatile! Swirl it onto a plate before topping with seared salmon, pour it over sheet-pan veggies as an easy side, or even use as a decadent base in a chicken or vegetable lasagna. Spoon it into a shallow bowl for dipping, or dollop onto roasted potatoes or rice bowls for a seriously gourmet twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Pesto Cream Sauce, let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for tucking into weekday lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Pesto Cream Sauce! Pour cooled sauce into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space for expansion. It will keep for up to two months. When you’re ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge so the sauce stays smooth and delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the sauce gently in a saucepan over low heat. Stir often, and if it’s a little too thick, whisk in a splash of milk or cream to bring back its signature silkiness. Avoid high heat, which can make creamy sauces separate.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto for the Pesto Cream Sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works beautifully here—just choose one with flavors you enjoy. If you have homemade pesto on hand, that’s a bonus, but there’s no need to stress. Either way, the sauce will shine.

What type of pasta pairs best with this sauce?

Short pastas like penne or fusilli are wonderful for holding onto all the creamy goodness, but classic spaghetti or fettuccine work just as well. Feel free to use whatever you have in your pantry, or even try gnocchi for a heartier twist.

Can I make this sauce without cream?

If you’d like a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind the texture will be runnier and less rich. For a dairy-free spin, try coconut cream and a dairy-free parmesan alternative, though the flavor will change slightly.

Is Pesto Cream Sauce gluten-free?

The sauce itself is gluten-free as written. Just be sure to pair it with gluten-free pasta or serve over proteins or vegetables to keep the whole dish suitable for gluten-free guests.

How long can Pesto Cream Sauce sit out at room temperature?

Since this sauce contains dairy, aim to serve it immediately and refrigerate any leftovers within two hours to ensure freshness and food safety.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Pesto Cream Sauce enough—it’s like magic in a skillet, with bold flavors and a richness that makes any meal feel special. I hope you’ll give it a go and let it become a new favorite for quick dinners or show-stopping gatherings. Roll up your sleeves, grab that jar of pesto, and treat yourself!

Print