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Image of rich, creamy pesto Alfredo sauce in a white skillet, topped with basil leaves and Parmesan.

Pesto Alfredo Sauce

A creamy and flavorful blend of classic Alfredo sauce and herby basil pesto, perfect for tossing with pasta, spooning over grilled chicken, or using as a gourmet pizza base.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Sauce
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • whisk
  • Grater

Ingredients
  

Pesto Alfredo Sauce Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto store-bought or homemade
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • optional milk or pasta water to thin the sauce if needed

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for 3–4 minutes to slightly reduce.
  • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Lower the heat and continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
  • Remove the pan from heat and stir in the basil pesto. Mix well to combine.
  • Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen it.
  • Serve immediately over hot pasta, grilled chicken, or as a dipping sauce.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce. Add the pesto after removing from heat to preserve its fresh herb flavor. This sauce pairs wonderfully with fettuccine, linguine, or even as a pizza base.
Keyword creamy pasta sauce, easy Alfredo, homemade pesto sauce, pesto Alfredo, pesto alfredo sauce