One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta

This One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta is a vibrant, herby dish that brings together bold flavors and convenience in one pan. Butter, garlic, and olive oil form the savory base, while the pasta cooks directly in broth for extra flavor absorption. Heavy cream and fresh pesto create a rich, velvety sauce, finished with a generous helping of Parmesan and fresh basil. It’s fast, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying—perfect for pesto lovers.

Author: These Carbs Don't Count

Category: Pasta

Cuisine: Italian

Difficulty: MEDIUM

Prep. Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 2 plates

Calories: 1,003 kcal per serving

Ingredients

½ pound - pasta
3 tablespoon - butter
⅛ Dash - olive oil
3 cloves - garlic
2 cup - chicken broth
⅛ - Salt
⅛ - Black pepper
½ teaspoon - garlic powder
½ teaspoon - onion powder
½ teaspoon - dried parsley
½ cup - heavy cream
½ cup - pesto
½ cup - Parmesan cheese
⅛ - Fresh basil

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add a dash of olive oil.
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Mix in dry pasta and stir to coat in garlic oil.
Add chicken broth to just cover the pasta. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley.
Bring to a simmer and stir occasionally until pasta is cooked and most of the broth is absorbed.
Add heavy cream and pesto. Stir and bring to a simmer.
Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Top with additional Parmesan and fresh basil before serving.