What is pesto Alfredo sauce made of?

It’s a cozy mix of classic Alfredo sauce and fresh basil pesto. The Alfredo part brings the butter, cream, and Parmesan, while the pesto adds basil, garlic, and olive oil. Together, they make a sauce that’s both creamy and bold—perfect for pasta and more.

Can I use jarred pesto for this sauce?

Yes, absolutely. While homemade pesto tastes amazing, a good-quality jarred version saves time and still works great. Just check the label and go for one that uses fresh ingredients like basil, garlic, and olive oil.

What’s the best pasta for pesto Alfredo sauce?

Fettuccine is a top choice because it holds onto the sauce well. But honestly, you can use whatever you have on hand—penne, rotini, spaghetti, even stuffed pasta like tortellini. They all work with this creamy green sauce.

How do you thicken pesto Alfredo sauce if it’s too runny?

No need to panic—just let it simmer a bit longer on low heat. If that doesn’t do the trick, stir in more Parmesan cheese or a spoonful of cream cheese. And remember, a little pasta water can loosen things up if it gets too thick later.

Pesto Alfredo Sauce: The Best 1-Pan Creamy Pasta Dish

Name: Pesto Alfredo Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: – 2 tbsp unsalted butter; – 2 garlic cloves, minced; – 1½ cups heavy cream; – ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese; – ½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought); – ¼ tsp black pepper; – Salt to taste; – Optional: pasta of your choice, cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken

Description

This pesto Alfredo sauce is creamy, rich, and ready in just 20 minutes. It’s a cozy blend of garlic, Parmesan, and basil pesto—perfect for any pasta night.

Ingredients

– 2 tbsp unsalted butter

– 2 garlic cloves, minced

– 1½ cups heavy cream

– ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

– ½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)

– ¼ tsp black pepper

– Salt to taste

– Optional: pasta of your choice, cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Pour in heavy cream, stirring gently until heated.

4. Gradually add Parmesan, stirring until fully melted.

5. Stir in pesto, reduce heat, and simmer for 2–3 minutes.

6. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot over cooked pasta.

Notes

– Sauce thickens as it sits; thin with a splash of milk if needed.

– Use fresh Parmesan for the smoothest results.

– Stir gently and avoid boiling to prevent separation.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 280
Fat: 27g
Protein: 5g

Keywords: pesto Alfredo sauce, creamy pasta sauce, garlic parmesan cream, homemade pesto alfredo, basil Alfredo