Easy Cheesy Pesto Pasta: A Quick and Delicious Meal

Who doesn’t love a warm, cheesy pasta that’s bursting with flavor? This easy cheesy pesto pasta is one of my go-to recipes for a satisfying meal. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with fresh pesto goodness, making it the perfect comfort food for any day of the week. The best part? It’s super simple to make and ready in under 30 minutes. If you’re craving something that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen but really didn’t, then this recipe is for you!

Method 

Boil the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of water and adding a generous pinch of salt. Once the water is boiling, add the 240g of dry rigatoni pasta. Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package, typically for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente (firm but tender). When the pasta is done, carefully drain the water, but be sure to save a little bit of the pasta water about half a cup because it will help create a silky, smooth sauce later on.

Mix the Good Stuff

In the same pot you used to cook the pasta, pour in 100ml of vegetable stock. Stir the stock in the pot to heat it up, then add the 45g of reduced-fat pesto and 30g of lighter cream cheese. Stir well for about 1-2 minutes until the cream cheese melts completely and blends smoothly with the pesto. The stock will combine with the cream cheese and pesto, forming a rich and creamy sauce that will coat your pasta beautifully.

Add Spinach & Season

Once the sauce is nicely mixed and smooth, add a large handful of spinach into the pot. Stir the spinach in well and let it wilt into the sauce. The spinach will soften quickly, so keep stirring to ensure it wilts evenly. After the spinach has wilted, season the sauce with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Be sure to check the seasoning and adjust if necessary, as the vegetable stock and pesto may already add some saltiness.

Serve & Enjoy

Once everything is well mixed and the spinach has fully wilted, remove the pot from the heat. Now, your creamy pesto pasta is ready to serve! Scoop the pasta into bowls or plates, and if you want an extra cheesy kick, sprinkle some grated cheese on top. Serve it hot, and enjoy this simple yet comforting dish. You’ll have a warm, cheesy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any time of day.

Necessary Tools 

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining pasta
• Stirring spoon
• Measuring spoons
• A pan or large skillet (for mixing)
• Cheese grater (optional, for extra cheese topping)

Serving Suggestions 

• Pair this dish with some garlic bread for a full Italian-inspired meal.
• Add a side salad with mixed greens to balance the creamy richness of the pasta.
• Want to make it even more hearty? Try adding some grilled chicken or roasted veggies.

Fun Fact 

Did you know that pesto originated in Genoa, Italy? The word “pesto” comes from the Italian word pestare, meaning “to pound” or “to crush,” referring to the traditional method of grinding the ingredients with a mortar and pestle.

Conclusion 

This easy cheesy pesto pasta is the perfect meal when you need something fast, flavorful, and satisfying. The creamy pesto sauce mixed with rigatoni is a comforting combination that will make you feel like you’re dining at a fancy Italian restaurant even if you’re eating on the couch. Enjoy making this dish and feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings! Happy cooking!