A creamy pesto sauce that is ready in just about 15 minutes. Toss it with pasta or spoon over grilled chicken for a great weeknight dinner. Watch this 30 minute Pin TV episode where Susie makes Basil Pesto and then turns it into this amazing Pesto Cream Sauce with Pasta.OR listen to the audio recipe and cook along, using the player below.
Place a large skillet over medium-low heat and melt the butter. Add the garlic and saute for 1 minute.
Add the dried basil and kosher salt, saute for an additional 30 seconds.
Pour in the pesto and heavy cream. Stir to combine. Simmer over medium-low heat for 3 minutes.
Remove from the heat and stir in the parmesan cheese until it is completely melted.
Taste for additional seasoning - add more kosher salt as desired.
Let cool and thicken for 3 minutes.
Serving
Serve tossed with cooked pasta (spaghetti, cavatappi or penne are great). Should be enough sauce to coat at least 12 oz of pasta. Garnish with additional parmesan cheese.
Store any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat portions in the microwave for 1 minute. Just like an alfredo you may get a little separation of the oil and cream when reheating.
Video
Notes
Good Quality Pesto: shelf stable pesto is not going to be the best option. However if that is all you have to choose from make sure to read the ingredients. They vary greatly! Pick one that lists basil as the first ingredient.If you can find refrigerated pesto, that is going to be your best store bought option. Both Trader Joes and Costco have a good refrigerated Pesto.But if you have time to make and freeze your own homemade basil pesto! that is going to be the yummiest.To make a Pasta without the cream pop over to this recipe for Pesto Pasta.