Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce

This Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce is a rich and indulgent twist on classic pesto, featuring a smooth blend of fresh basil, Parmesan, and toasted pine nuts, combined with double cream for extra silkiness. Tossed with casarecce pasta and topped with burrata, this dish is both comforting and elevated—perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy – The addition of double cream and burrata creates a luscious, velvety sauce.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute meal.
• Fresh and Flavorful – Basil, garlic, and lemon add brightness and depth.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home – Simple ingredients come together to create an elegant dish.
• Versatile – Pairs well with different pasta shapes, proteins, or even as a dip.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pesto Sauce

• Fresh basil
• Garlic clove
• Toasted pine nuts
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Lemon zest and juice

For the Creamy Pasta

• Casarecce pasta (or any short pasta)
• Double cream
• Burrata

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add casarecce pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

2. Make the Pesto Sauce

1. In a food processor, blend basil, garlic, toasted pine nuts, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice until combined.
2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth.
3. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

3. Combine the Sauce and Pasta

1. In a skillet over low heat, add pesto and double cream, stirring until combined.
2. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly.
3. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.

4. Serve and Garnish

1. Divide the pasta into bowls.
2. Tear burrata over the top and drizzle with extra olive oil.
3. Garnish with extra toasted pine nuts and Parmesan before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 2 servings
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Version – Swap pine nuts for sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.
• Extra Protein – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Vegan Alternative – Use cashew cream instead of double cream and a vegan Parmesan substitute.
• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Different Pasta Shapes – Try penne, fusilli, or tagliatelle instead of casarecce.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a pan with a splash of water or cream to restore creaminess.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the dairy content, but pesto alone can be frozen for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes! If short on time, use good-quality store-bought pesto and mix with double cream.

What is the best pasta for this dish?

Short pasta like casarecce, penne, or fusilli holds the sauce well, but long pasta works too.

How do I make the sauce smoother?

Blend the pesto longer and add more olive oil or pasta water to achieve a silkier consistency.

Can I use a different cheese instead of burrata?

Yes! Try fresh mozzarella, ricotta, or extra Parmesan for a similar creamy finish.

Why is my pesto turning brown?

Oxidation causes basil to darken. Add a splash of lemon juice and store pesto in an airtight container.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the pesto sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.

What can I serve with this pasta?

Pair it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

No, fresh basil is essential for flavor and texture in pesto.

How do I toast pine nuts?

Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant.

Can I make this without double cream?

Yes! Use Greek yogurt, mascarpone, or extra olive oil for a lighter version.

Conclusion

This Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce takes a classic pesto dish to the next level with rich double cream, burrata, and toasted pine nuts. In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal at home. Whether for a quick dinner, date night, or a special occasion, this indulgent yet simple dish is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy every creamy, basil-infused bite!