Angel Hair Pasta With Creamy Pesto

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Creamy Pesto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz angel hair pasta; Salt, for the pasta water; 2 cups fresh basil leaves; 1/4 cup pine nuts; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: International Plates

I absolutely love making angel hair pasta with creamy pesto on busy weeknights. It's quick, easy, and irresistibly flavorful! The delicate strands of pasta pair beautifully with the rich, creamy pesto sauce, which brings a burst of freshness to every bite. I often make this dish when I need a comforting meal that feels indulgent but is ready in just 20 minutes. It has become a staple in my kitchen for its simplicity and deliciousness, and I always love having leftovers for lunch the next day.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:02:37.000Z

When I first experimented with a creamy pesto sauce, I didn’t expect it to become one of my favorite quick dinners. The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and parmesan creates a vibrant sauce that complements the lightness of angel hair perfectly. I remember serving this dish to friends for the first time, and they couldn’t believe how easy it was to make something so delicious.

One tip I swear by is to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining the noodles. Mixing this starchy water into the sauce helps it cling to the pasta beautifully, creating that luxurious, creamy texture. Since then, I always keep a jar of homemade pesto in the fridge for those evenings when I need a swift, delightful meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy pesto sauce that elevates the dish to a new level
Quick preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners
Fresh basil brings vibrant flavor to every bite

Perfecting Your Pasta

When cooking angel hair pasta, timing is crucial. This delicate pasta cooks very quickly, typically in just 3 to 5 minutes. To avoid overcooking, keep a close eye on it once it reaches 3 minutes. The ideal texture is al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. If you do overcook it slightly, don’t panic; simply drain it and move quickly to mix in the sauce, as the residual heat can help bind the flavors together.

A common issue with pasta is sticking together. To prevent this, make sure you stir the pasta gently in the boiling water during the first minute of cooking. Adding a generous amount of salt to the pasta water also helps enhance the flavor of the pasta. Since angel hair is so thin, it can clump together if left unattended, so be attentive during cooking and use a large pot to give it ample space.

Crafting the Creamy Pesto

The beauty of this creamy pesto lies in the fresh basil, which offers a vibrant flavor boost. Using fresh basil instead of dried is key; it provides a brightness that really elevates the dish. When selecting basil, look for deep green, perky leaves. If you can find it, try growing your own basil as homegrown varieties often have the most robust flavor. If fresh basil is unavailable, consider using spinach or kale as a substitute, but the flavor profile will shift slightly.

To achieve a silky texture in the pesto, ensure you're using quality extra virgin olive oil. This is not just a filler ingredient; it contributes to the flavor and creaminess. When adding the olive oil, do it gradually while the food processor runs to create an emulsion. If your pesto seems too thick after adding the heavy cream, just a tablespoon of reserved pasta water can bring it back to the desired consistency.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz angel hair pasta
Salt, for the pasta water

For the Creamy Pesto Sauce

2 cups fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the cooking water and then drain the pasta.

Make the Pesto

In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, and minced garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. Add the Parmesan cheese and blend again. While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Finally, add the heavy cream, blending until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

In a large bowl, mix the cooked angel hair pasta with the creamy pesto sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, add a splash of lemon juice to the pesto sauce before blending. You can also use walnuts instead of pine nuts for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your angel hair pasta with creamy pesto, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top. They pair beautifully with the rich flavors and provide additional protein to the meal. Roasting the proteins with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper beforehand clips the cooking time to under 15 minutes and adds a nice depth of flavor while keeping them juicy.

For a little crunch and contrasting texture, toasted pine nuts can be sprinkled on top just before serving. This adds a delightful nutty flavor that complements the creamy sauce well. Additionally, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish can enhance the overall flavors, making everything pop.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're anticipating leftovers, this creamy pesto pasta holds up surprisingly well in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce back to its creamy consistency.

For meal prep, you can make the creamy pesto in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just keep it in a sealed container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, just cook the pasta fresh for a quick and satisfying meal without the fuss.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto saves time and can be just as delicious.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter option, but it may alter the flavor.

→ What can I add to make this dish heartier?

Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables for added protein and texture.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.