Why You’ll Love One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe

One‑pot meal with minimal cleanup — perfect for busy nights
Creamy, rich sauce without dairy — satisfying even for non‑vegans
Fresh herbs, spinach, and tomatoes boost flavor and color
Ready in about 25 minutes, ideal for quick dinners
Easy to customize with extra veggies or plant proteins

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• Tagliatelle or fettuccine
• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh spinach
• Fresh basil leaves
• Garlic cloves
• Green pesto
• Italian seasoning
• Oat cream or another plant cream
• Vegetable stock
• Salt & pepper
• Optional: chili flakes or vegan parmesan (for topping)

Directions

Place pasta nests in a wide, deep pan. On one side, add the cherry tomatoes and on the other, add the spinach and basil. Scatter thinly sliced garlic over everything.
Spoon the pesto onto the pasta and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes.
Pour in oat cream and vegetable stock until the pasta is mostly covered.
Cover with a lid and cook over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more stock if needed.
Once the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens, stir everything together so the creamy pesto coats the pasta evenly.
Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve hot with optional vegan parmesan or extra basil.

Servings and timing

Serves: 2
Prep time: about 5 minutes
Cook time: about 19 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before reheating, add a small splash of oat milk or vegetable broth to help bring back the creamy texture. Gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?

Short or ribbon pasta like tagliatelle, fettuccine, penne, or fusilli all work well. Just adjust the liquid a bit based on the shape.

Can I substitute the oat cream with another ingredient?

Yes — soy cream, coconut cream, or blended cashew cream all make good alternatives and add their own unique flavor.

Is this recipe oil‑free?

Yes, if you use an oil‑free pesto and skip any added oil, this dish stays oil‑free and still flavorful.

How can I make this dish more protein‑rich?

Add roasted chickpeas, cubes of tofu, tempeh, or cooked lentils for added plant protein.

Can this recipe be made gluten‑free?

Yes, use your favorite gluten‑free pasta and adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and keeps flavor, especially with a splash of plant milk or broth added when reheating.

What sides pair well with this pasta?

A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement this creamy pesto pasta nicely.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely. Zucchini, bell peppers, or peas can be added toward the end of cooking.

How do I prevent pasta from sticking while cooking?

Stir occasionally while the pasta simmers to keep it from clumping and ensure even cooking.

Can I use store‑bought pesto?

Yes — high‑quality store‑bought pesto works great and saves time.

Conclusion

This One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta is a quick, satisfying, and easy meal that brings together creamy plant‑based flavors with fresh basil and spinach in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for two on a weeknight or want a simple yet special dish for guests, this recipe delivers rich flavor, minimal mess, and plenty of room for customization.