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Pesto Cream Sauce

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Pesto Cream Sauce is a rich, velvety Italian-inspired sauce made with basil pesto, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and butter. It comes together in minutes and pairs beautifully with pasta, chicken, seafood, vegetables, and more.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons reserved pasta water or milk, if needed

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until it begins to simmer gently.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the basil pesto until fully combined.
  5. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and the sauce is smooth.
  6. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.
  8. Serve immediately over pasta, chicken, seafood, or vegetables.

Notes

  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
  • Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
  • Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream for a lighter version.
  • Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for added richness and color.
  • Try arugula or spinach pesto instead of basil pesto for a different flavor.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk, cream, or pasta water. Freezing is not recommended.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/pesto-cream-sauce/