Jalapeno Pesto Pasta (Creamy, Spicy & Easy Recipe)

Name: Jalapeno Pesto Pasta (Creamy, Spicy & Easy Recipe)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian Fusion
Ingredients: 5 jalapeños, deseeded (keep seeds for extra heat); 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed; 1/4 cup cashews, soaked 10 minutes; 1/4 cup parmesan, grated; 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 250 g short pasta (penne, farfalle, or fusilli); 2 tbsp olive oil (for pan); 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced; 5–6 cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup milk or cream; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, toasted; 1/4 cup parmesan, for topping

BY Olivia Bennett October 11, 2025

Creamy jalapeno pesto pasta with basil and parmesan

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If you love bold flavors and quick meals, this jalapeno pesto pasta will hit every craving — creamy, spicy, and ready in under 30 minutes. Imagine the classic Italian pesto you adore, but with a fiery jalapeño twist that adds a kick of heat and freshness in every bite. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and creativity, ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with something unexpected yet delicious.

This recipe combines fragrant basil, roasted jalapeños, and creamy cashews to create a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to pasta. The result? A satisfying fusion dish that delivers both flavor and texture — a true crowd-pleaser for spice lovers and pasta fans alike.

Whether you bake it with a golden breadcrumb crust or keep it simple on the stovetop, this jalapeno pesto pasta is a modern twist on a beloved classic — easy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable.

This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional dietary or medical advice.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Jalapeno Pesto Pasta

There’s a lot to adore about this vibrant and creamy jalapeno pesto pasta. It takes everything you love about classic basil pesto and elevates it with a bold, spicy kick — without overwhelming the flavor. Here’s why this dish deserves a spot in your weeknight rotation:

Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you still want something gourmet.
Creamy & Spicy Fusion: The heat of jalapeños pairs beautifully with creamy parmesan and nutty cashews, creating a sauce that’s rich but balanced.
Customizable Heat Level: Love extra spice? Keep the seeds. Prefer mild? Simply deseed your jalapeños. You’re in control.
Great Make-Ahead Meal: The pesto can be made ahead and stored, making meal prep a breeze.
Perfect for Entertaining: Serve it baked with a cheesy, golden topping for an impressive (and easy) dinner-party dish.

This jalapeno pesto pasta is more than just a recipe — it’s a flavor adventure that merges Italian comfort with a zesty Mexican edge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This jalapeno pesto pasta uses fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create a sauce bursting with flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need, divided into two parts — the jalapeño pesto and the pasta base.

For the Jalapeno Pesto

5 jalapeños, deseeded (keep seeds for extra heat)
½ cup fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
¼ cup cashews, soaked in hot water for 10 minutes (or substitute with almonds or pine nuts)
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (or pecorino for a saltier kick)
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Tip: Blend all the ingredients except olive oil first, then drizzle in the oil slowly until the pesto becomes smooth and creamy.

For the Pasta

250 grams short pasta (penne, farfalle, or fusilli work great)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
½ cup bell peppers, diced (mix red and yellow for color)
5–6 cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup milk (or cream for a richer sauce)
½ cup breadcrumbs, toasted
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese, for topping
Salt, for boiling pasta water

Optional Add-ins

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for extra protein
Zucchini, spinach, or corn for added texture and color

This balanced mix of ingredients creates a creamy, mildly spicy pasta that’s as comforting as it is exciting.

How to Make Jalapeno Pesto Pasta (Step-by-Step)

Step 1 – Make the Jalapeno Pesto Sauce
In a blender or food processor, combine jalapeños, basil leaves, cashews, parmesan, and salt. Pulse a few times to break everything down. Then, with the blender running on low, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture turns smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — add more jalapeño for spice or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Step 2 – Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to the package directions. Before draining, reserve about ¼ cup of the pasta water — it’s packed with starch and will help the sauce cling perfectly. Rinse the pasta briefly under cold water to stop it from overcooking.

Step 3 – Toss Everything Together
In a wide pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté until golden. Toss in bell peppers and cherry tomatoes, cooking for 1–2 minutes until slightly tender. Stir in the jalapeno pesto and reserved pasta water, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked pasta and milk, tossing well until everything is evenly coated in the creamy green sauce.

Step 4 – Bake for a Crispy Finish (Optional)
Transfer the pesto pasta to a baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with parmesan cheese and sprinkle generously on top. Broil or bake for 3–4 minutes, just until the top turns golden and crispy. This step adds a beautiful texture and flavor contrast.

Step-by-step making jalapeno pesto pasta

Step 5 – Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh basil or an extra sprinkle of cheese. Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a refreshing Mediterranean pasta salad recipe for a complete meal.

This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional dietary or medical advice.

Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Jalapeno Pesto Pasta

Use pasta water wisely. The starchy pasta water is a natural emulsifier that binds the sauce beautifully. Add it gradually while tossing for that restaurant-style glossy finish.

Adjust the spice level. If you love a fiery kick, keep some jalapeño seeds. For a milder version, remove all seeds before blending. You can even mix in a roasted poblano or green chili for a smoky edge.

Go for quality cheese. Authentic parmesan or pecorino gives your pesto a nutty, salty depth that store-bought shredded cheese can’t match.

Make it vegan. Swap parmesan for nutritional yeast and replace milk with coconut milk or oat cream for a dairy-free yet creamy result.

Don’t overcook the pasta. Slightly undercooked (al dente) pasta holds up better when tossed and baked. It’ll soak up the sauce without turning mushy.

Try different nuts. Cashews give creaminess, almonds add texture, and walnuts bring an earthy flavor. Experiment to find your favorite combination.

Serve it fresh. Jalapeno pesto is at its best right after blending. If storing, keep it in an airtight jar with a thin layer of olive oil on top to preserve its bright green color.

These small tweaks make a huge difference in flavor, texture, and appearance — helping your jalapeno pesto pasta turn out perfect every time.

Variations to Try

One of the best things about jalapeno pesto pasta is how flexible it is. Whether you’re in the mood for something heartier, creamier, or lighter, these simple variations let you tailor the dish to your taste.

Add Protein: Stir in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon for a protein-packed meal. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the spicy pesto.

Make It Creamier: Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to the sauce before tossing the pasta. It gives a luxurious, silky texture without muting the jalapeño flavor.

Try a Cold Pesto Pasta Salad: Skip the baking step and chill the pasta after tossing it with the pesto. Add fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta for a refreshing twist — perfect for summer potlucks.

Go Green: Boost the nutrition by blending in spinach, kale, or arugula with the pesto. It adds color and a subtle earthy taste.

Vegan-Friendly Option: Swap dairy parmesan for a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast, and replace milk with almond or oat milk.

Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties like brown rice or chickpea pasta for an allergy-friendly option.

Add Crunch: Top your pasta with toasted nuts or seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra layer of texture.

Each version offers its own charm — and every bite keeps that signature creamy, spicy flavor you love.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This jalapeno pesto pasta stores surprisingly well, making it great for meal prep or next-day lunches. Follow these simple storage and reheating guidelines to keep it creamy and flavorful.

Refrigeration: Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For the best texture, store the pesto sauce and cooked pasta separately if you can.

Freezing: The pesto sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months in ice cube trays or small airtight containers. Once frozen, transfer cubes to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before use. Avoid freezing the cooked pasta, as it tends to lose its texture.

Reheating: Warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk, cream, or water to loosen the sauce and bring back the creaminess. Avoid microwaving directly from the fridge, as it can cause uneven heating and dry out the sauce.

Refreshing the Flavor: Before serving leftovers, stir in a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh parmesan to revive the brightness of the dish.

Following these storage tips ensures your jalapeno pesto pasta stays just as delicious as the day you made it — creamy, zesty, and full of fresh flavor.

What to Serve With Jalapeno Pesto Pasta

The bold, creamy flavors of jalapeno pesto pasta pair beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting guests or planning a simple dinner, here are some perfect pairings to make your meal shine.

Fresh Salads: A crisp salad balances the richness of the pasta. Try a Grinder pasta salad recipe for a hearty side or a light Mediterranean pasta salad recipe with fresh veggies and feta for a refreshing contrast.

Garlic Bread or Bruschetta: The crunchy, buttery texture of garlic bread complements the creamy sauce beautifully. A simple tomato bruschetta also adds a touch of acidity to cut through the spice.

Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers enhance the dish’s natural sweetness and add more depth to the meal.

Light Proteins: Pair with grilled chicken breast, baked salmon, or seared shrimp for extra protein without overpowering the pesto’s flavors.

Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works wonderfully, balancing the heat and creaminess of the sauce.

Simple Side Dish Option: If you want something quick, a bowl of pasta salad or bacon ranch pasta salad makes a great complement for gatherings.

Together, these sides help create a balanced, flavor-packed meal that turns your jalapeno pesto pasta into a full dining experience.

Final Thoughts

This jalapeno pesto pasta is the perfect fusion of creamy Italian comfort and bold Mexican flair. The blend of fresh basil, spicy jalapeños, and nutty parmesan creates a sauce that’s rich, vibrant, and full of personality. Whether you serve it baked with a crunchy breadcrumb topping or toss it quickly on the stovetop, every bite delivers a satisfying balance of spice and smoothness.

It’s a quick, flavorful recipe that’s easy to adapt — ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual get-togethers. Once you’ve tried this zesty twist on traditional pesto, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

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FAQs About Jalapeno Pesto Pasta

1. Can I make jalapeno pesto pasta less spicy?

Yes! To reduce the heat, deseed the jalapeños completely before blending. You can also replace one jalapeño with a mild green pepper for a gentler flavor without losing the vibrant color.

2. What kind of pasta works best for jalapeno pesto?

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work best because their ridges and twists hold the creamy sauce beautifully. However, spaghetti or linguine can also be used if you prefer long noodles.

3. Can I make the pesto ahead of time?

Absolutely. The jalapeno pesto can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation and preserve the bright green color.

4. Is this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is vegetarian as written, but you can easily make it vegan by replacing parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and using plant-based milk instead of dairy.

5. What can I serve with jalapeno pesto pasta?

It pairs perfectly with garlic bread, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables. For variety, serve it alongside a chilled Mediterranean pasta salad recipe

6. Can I skip the baking step?

Yes. Baking adds a crunchy breadcrumb topping, but if you’re short on time, you can serve it straight from the pan. It’ll still be creamy, flavorful, and delicious.

7. How do I store leftovers without the pasta drying out?

Add a splash of milk or olive oil before refrigerating to help retain moisture. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove and stir frequently for the best texture.