Pasta, pesto, Parmesan, and onion come together in this Easy Pesto Pasta Recipe — a quick and flavorful dish in under 15 minutes!
Okay, real talk — this Easy Pesto Pasta Recipe has saved my weeknight dinner plans more times than I can count. You know those evenings when you’re too tired to cook but too hungry to ignore the fridge? That’s when I turn to this bowl of green comfort. I actually stumbled on it during a vacation in Italy where I ordered what I thought was a fancy pesto pasta… only to find out it was literally just great pesto, hot pasta, and a sprinkle of cheese. Mind blown. Simplicity wins every time.
Now, I’m not saying this is the most revolutionary recipe you’ll ever try, but it’s one of those “trusty back-pocket” meals that’s always there for you — like sweatpants, or your favorite playlist.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Pesto Pasta Recipe?
Besides being ready in 15 minutes (yes, even if you’re half asleep), it’s full of bold basil flavor and that warm, slightly nutty, cheesy finish that makes you go mmm after every bite. Plus, it’s just as tasty cold as it is hot — which makes it perfect for leftovers or lunchboxes.
Ingredient Notes:
I like to keep things simple here. Let’s break it down:
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Pasta (16 oz): Use what you love — penne, fusilli, spaghetti. I’m not here to judge.
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Olive oil (2 tbsp): A little sauté magic for the onions.
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Chopped onion (½ cup): Adds some depth and a nice mellow bite once it’s softened.
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Pesto (2½ tbsp): Go homemade if you’re feeling it, or use your favorite jarred kind. Either way, basil brings the flavor.
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Salt & black pepper: To wake everything up. Don’t skip the seasoning — it matters.
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Grated Parmesan (2 tbsp): Optional but not really. It’s the finishing touch.
How To Make Easy Pesto Pasta?
You know the drill — gather your ingredients, toss on some music, and let’s make magic.
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Boil the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with water, salt it generously (we want that water to taste like the sea!), and bring it to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set it in a big bowl. -
Sauté the Onions:
While the pasta is cooking, heat up your olive oil in a pan over medium-low. Add the chopped onions and stir for about 3 minutes, just until they’re soft and a little golden. Not burnt — we want sweet, not bitter! -
Mix in the Pesto:
Stir the pesto right into the onion mixture. Let it warm through for about a minute, then add your salt and pepper. You’re basically making a cozy pesto-onion sauce here.Want To Save This Recipe?
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Toss it Together:
Add the warm pesto mixture to your hot pasta. Throw in that Parmesan and give everything a good toss. You’ll know it’s right when everything smells amazing and the cheese melts into silky strands.
Storage Options:
Leftovers? Lucky you. Store the cooled pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Honestly, I think it tastes even better the next day. If you’re reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil so it doesn’t dry out.
Variations and Substitutions:
Want to mix it up a little? Here are a few ideas:
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Swap the pasta: Try chickpea pasta or gluten-free pasta for a different texture or dietary needs.
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Add-ins: Toss in cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, or roasted veggies for extra color and flavor.
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Dairy-free? Skip the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative — still delicious!
What to Serve with Easy Pesto Pasta?
This pesto pasta plays well with others. Try:
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Grilled chicken or shrimp: Protein plus flavor? Yes, please.
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Garlic bread: Because carbs on carbs is a lifestyle.
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Simple salad: A crisp, fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Totally. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready — or eat it cold, straight from the bowl. No judgment here.
Can I use homemade pesto?
Heck yes! Homemade pesto makes it even better. But jarred works just fine when you’re short on time (or basil).
Is this good for kids?
My little one inhales this. If your kiddo is unsure about green sauce, maybe call it “magic pasta” — works every time.
Can’t wait to hear what you think! Try it out, add your own twist, and tell me — are you Team Hot or Team Cold when it comes to pesto pasta?
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Easy Pesto Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 16-ounce package of pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 2½ tablespoons prepared basil pesto
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add a generous amount of salt. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and transfer to a large serving bowl.
Sauté the Onion:
- In a skillet over medium-low heat, warm the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, approximately 3 minutes.
Incorporate the Pesto:
- Add the prepared pesto to the pan with the onion. Stir gently to combine and heat through. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Continue stirring for 1 minute until the mixture is warmed and aromatic.
Combine with Pasta:
- Pour the pesto-onion mixture over the cooked pasta. Add the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss thoroughly to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and cheese.
Serve:
- Serve the pesto pasta immediately while warm, or allow it to cool to room temperature and serve chilled. This dish is also excellent when enjoyed as a next-day leftover.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
