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One-pot meals have revolutionized the way we approach cooking, especially on busy weeknights. They offer not only convenience but also the joy of minimal cleanup, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—enjoying delicious food with loved ones. The One-Pot Cheesy Pesto Pasta is a perfect embodiment of this concept, combining ease of preparation with vibrant flavors.

One-Pote Cheesy Pesto Pasta

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea? Try this One-Pot Cheesy Pesto Pasta! It's the perfect blend of creamy textures and vibrant flavors, making it a family favorite. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this comforting dish packed with veggies like spinach and cherry tomatoes, all while keeping cleanup minimal. Whether for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Dive into effortless cooking and enjoy a delightful meal everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)

2 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Garlic: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant—this releases its aromatic flavor into the oil.

    Combine the Liquids: Carefully pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Stir the mixture well to ensure it's blended. Next, add the uncooked pasta, making sure it's fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.

      Cook the Pasta: Increase the heat until the mixture reaches a boil. Once it's boiling, lower the heat to medium-low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

        Incorporate Pesto and Vegetables: After the pasta is cooked al dente, add the pesto sauce, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the tomatoes to soften slightly.

          Mix in the Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until they are melted and the pasta becomes creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.

            Serve Up: Remove the pot from heat. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings

                - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve in shallow bowls and sprinkle additional cheese on top, along with a few extra cherry tomato halves for a vibrant look.