Combining the richness of Alfredo sauce with the bold flavors of pesto, this Creamy Pesto Alfredo Sauce is a perfect blend of comfort and gourmet. It’s not just a simple weeknight meal—it’s a flavorful experience that you can customize based on your preferences. Whether you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes or looking to elevate your pesto game, this recipe will deliver every time.
Pesto Alfredo is versatile enough to serve on its own or as a base for proteins like chicken or salmon. Whether you’re using store-bought pesto or making your own, this creamy sauce will take any pasta dish to the next level. For those eager to explore homemade pesto, this guide to making the best homemade pesto will set you on the right track.
Ingredients for Pesto Alfredo Sauce
Before you start cooking, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. This combination creates a rich, savory sauce that pairs perfectly with any type of pasta:
- Pesto – Homemade or store-bought, pesto is the star of this dish.
- Olive oil – Enhances the richness of the sauce.
- Onion – Use yellow or white onion for subtle sweetness.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic or Brazilian sofrito adds depth of flavor.
- Heavy cream – Essential for a rich and velvety Alfredo texture.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese – Adds creaminess and sharpness.
- White wine – Dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works best.
- Pasta water – Key for thinning out the sauce and adding starch for extra creaminess.
- Pasta – Any pasta works, but gluten-free may not provide the same starchy creaminess.
- Fresh basil – Optional but perfect for garnish and added freshness.
If you’re unsure how to cook pasta al dente, mastering this simple technique is essential for the perfect pesto Alfredo dish. For best results, follow these tips on how to boil pasta al dente to get it right every time.
How to Make Creamy Pesto Alfredo Sauce
Here’s how you can create this indulgent pesto Alfredo sauce in just a few simple steps:
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling your pasta. Remember to reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will be crucial for creating the perfect sauce consistency.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Next, add garlic or Brazilian sofrito and cook until fragrant.
- Add Wine and Cream: Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol. Then, add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer and thicken for a few minutes.
- Incorporate the Pesto: Stir in the pesto, combining it thoroughly with the cream mixture. The vibrant green color of the pesto will meld beautifully with the cream, creating a rich sauce.
- Add Pasta Water: Slowly add the reserved pasta water to the sauce. This will help bind the sauce to the pasta and create a silkier texture.
- Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it well, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated with the creamy pesto Alfredo sauce.
- Finish with Cheese: Finally, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese into the pasta and stir until the cheese melts and blends into the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional parmesan for an extra burst of flavor and aroma.
What to Serve with Pesto Alfredo Sauce
While this creamy pesto Alfredo dish is indulgent enough to stand on its own, you can easily pair it with sides to create a more complete meal. Here are a few suggestions:
- Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Simple salad – A refreshing arugula and quinoa salad complements the richness of the sauce.
- Grilled or roasted proteins – Serve with grilled chicken, pan-seared shrimp, or roasted salmon for added protein and flavor.
For more creative side dishes, explore this guide on the best side dishes to pair with stuffed shells for inspiration.
Recipe Customizations
Want to personalize your pesto Alfredo sauce? Here are some ideas to add a unique twist:
- Add Protein: Enhance the dish by adding pan-seared chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon.
- Add Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms add both texture and flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your sauce a kick.
- Use Different Cheese: Swap out parmesan for pecorino romano or asiago for a different flavor profile.
For those interested in experimenting with creamy parmesan pasta variations, check out this similar recipe for creamy parmesan orecchiette, which offers another comforting take on cheesy pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What kind of cream should I use for Alfredo sauce?
For the best results, always use heavy cream. Lower-fat options like milk or half-and-half won’t give the sauce the same richness and creamy consistency.
Can I use store-bought pesto in this recipe?
Absolutely! While homemade pesto offers a fresher, more robust flavor, store-bought pesto works well when you’re short on time. If you’re interested in making your own pesto, check out this homemade pesto guide.
Can I freeze the pesto Alfredo sauce?
Yes, you can freeze pesto Alfredo sauce. Allow the sauce to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. To reheat, warm it slowly over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating.
What side dishes go well with pesto Alfredo pasta?
This rich pasta dish pairs well with lighter sides like a fresh salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it alongside protein-rich options like grilled chicken or roasted salmon for a complete meal.
Conclusion
The perfect balance between creamy Alfredo and herby pesto, this Creamy Pesto Alfredo Sauce will satisfy your cravings for a decadent, flavorful pasta dish. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with your favorite sides and proteins for a meal that feels both comforting and gourmet.
With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this delightful pesto Alfredo sauce in no time. Whether you prefer to make it entirely from scratch or use store-bought pesto, you can enjoy the rich, savory flavors that will make this recipe a staple in your home.
For more pasta inspiration, check out related dishes like this pesto pasta recipe or explore different variations of creamy sauces that elevate your pasta game.
Creamy Pesto Alfredo Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion diced
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated (plus extra for serving)
- 1/2 cup pasta water reserve when boiling pasta
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1/2 cup white wine replace with vegetable broth if preferred
- 1 tablespoon Brazilian sofrito or 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound of pasta any kind
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil optional, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, and set it aside.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the sofrito (or garlic), and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Add the White Wine:
- Pour in the white wine (or vegetable broth) and let it simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the liquid to reduce slightly.
Add the Cream and Parmesan:
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens. Add the reserved pasta water little by little until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Add the Pesto:
- Stir in the pesto and mix until the sauce is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss with Pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing well to coat every noodle in the creamy pesto Alfredo goodness.
Serve and Garnish:
- Serve hot, with extra Parmesan and fresh basil on top for garnish if desired.
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