15 Pesto Dishes That Make Everything Better

If you’re always reaching for that jar of pesto in the fridge, this list is for you. These recipes show just how versatile and flavorful pesto can be, whether it’s folded into creamy sauces, drizzled over roasted vegetables, or used to brighten up salads and soups. From cozy pasta dinners to quick snacks and even a bold breakfast pizza, there’s a pesto-powered idea here for every craving. Get ready for bold herbs, rich cheeses, and that unmistakable garlic punch in all kinds of ways.

Tuna Pesto Pasta

A bowl of rotini pasta mixed with cherry tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, and chunks of tuna, with a fork on the side. — Tuna Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

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Tuna brings a briny richness to this quick and satisfying pasta. The pesto adds an herby layer that lifts the flavor of the fish. It’s a simple dish that comes together fast but tastes like it took all day. Great for busy nights when you want something hearty and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Pesto Pasta

Roasted Jalapeno Cilantro Pesto

A close-up of a bowl filled with green pesto sauce, with a gold spoon partially submerged in the mixture. — Roasted Jalapeno Cilantro Pesto. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This twist on the classic sauce brings some heat and smokiness to the mix. Roasting the jalapenos deepens their flavor while cilantro gives it a fresh and slightly citrusy edge. It’s great on tacos, grilled chicken, or even as a sandwich spread. A bold option when basil feels too predictable.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Jalapeno Cilantro Pesto

Pesto Pasta Salad

A bowl of bowtie pasta mixed with green beans, red bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and a green herb sauce. — Pesto Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This chilled pasta is tossed with pesto, crisp vegetables, and plenty of mix-ins for texture. It’s ideal for picnics, lunches, or a make-ahead dinner. The pesto clings to every piece of pasta, infusing it with flavor from the first bite to the last. It’s easy to customize with whatever you’ve got on hand.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Pasta Salad

Pesto Bruschetta Chicken

Three baked chicken breasts topped with pesto, sliced cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh basil on a white plate, set on a patterned napkin. — xr:d:DAF56fm61ZA:2,j:4686410932606366075,t:24011501

Juicy grilled or baked chicken gets topped with fresh tomato bruschetta and spoonfuls of pesto. The combination is both rustic and satisfying. It works well for weeknights but looks fancy enough for guests. Serve it with garlic bread or a simple salad to round things out.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Bruschetta Chicken

Creamy Beef Ragu

A bowl of penne pasta with meat sauce, garnished with fresh basil, served with a fork on a white plate atop a patterned placemat. — Creamy Beef Ragu. Photo credit: The Pasta Project.

Slow-cooked beef in a tomato-rich sauce gets finished with a swirl of cream for richness. It’s hearty, comforting, and ideal for a long, relaxed dinner. The sauce clings to pasta beautifully, delivering savory flavor in every bite. Great with wide noodles like pappardelle or fettuccine.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Ragu

Smoky Breakfast Pizza Recipe with Perfect Sunny Egg

A baked flatbread topped with a sunny-side-up egg, sliced mushrooms, melted cheese, and green pesto sauce on a wooden surface. — Smoky Breakfast Pizza Recipe with Perfect Sunny Egg. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

A crisp pizza crust meets smoky toppings and a sunny-side-up egg in this bold breakfast dish. The yolk acts like a rich sauce, tying everything together. You can use pesto in place of tomato sauce for a herb-forward twist. It’s a fun way to shake up your morning routine.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Breakfast Pizza Recipe with Perfect Sunny Egg

Pesto Chicken and Vegetables

Roasted spatchcock chicken on a foil-lined tray surrounded by cooked carrots, zucchini, onions, potatoes, and green bell peppers. — Pesto Chicken and Vegetables. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Chicken breasts or thighs are roasted with seasonal vegetables and tossed with pesto before serving. The oil in the sauce keeps everything juicy and flavorful. It’s a one-pan meal that feels fresh without extra fuss. Serve over rice or pasta, or just enjoy as-is.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Chicken and Vegetables

Pasta Portofino

Two bundles of spaghetti with cherry tomatoes, pesto, and pine nuts, garnished with a basil sprig, served on a white plate with decorative gold patterns and a fork. — Pasta Portofino. Photo credit: The Pasta Project.

This seafood pasta combines shrimp, clams, or scallops with garlic and herbs. A little white wine and pesto bring brightness to the sauce. The dish comes together quickly but feels like something from a coastal restaurant. Pair with crusty bread for a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Portofino

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creamy chicken and gnocchi soup with spinach cooking in a slow cooker, stirred with a wooden spoon. — Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Flavorful eats.

This rich and comforting soup simmers slowly to let the flavors meld. Gnocchi add a pillowy texture while shredded chicken keeps it filling. A spoonful of pesto swirled in at the end brings a burst of flavor. Great for chilly nights or lazy Sundays.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pesto Cauliflower

Close-up of roasted cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and arugula, seasoned with green pesto sauce. — Pesto Cauliflower. Photo credit: Hip Hip Gourmet.

Roasted cauliflower florets are tossed with pesto right out of the oven. The heat helps the sauce soak in and cling to every edge. It’s a flavorful side that pairs well with grilled meats or pasta. You can also serve it cold in a veggie bowl or wrap.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Cauliflower

Pesto Butter

A log of herb butter is sliced on a wooden board, with a knife and a piece of bread in the foreground and more bread slices in the background. — Pesto Butter. Photo credit: Hip Hip Gourmet.

Softened butter gets blended with pesto to create a spread that’s good on everything. Melt it over steaks, swirl it into mashed potatoes, or smear it on warm bread. It’s easy to make and keeps well in the fridge or freezer. One of those things you’ll always want on hand.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Butter

Pesto Orzo Salad

A bowl of orzo salad with spinach, cherry tomatoes, and grated cheese on top. — Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget .

Tiny orzo pasta is mixed with pesto, lemon, and crisp vegetables in this bright and easy salad. It works well as a side or a light main dish. The small shape of the pasta means every bite is packed with flavor. Serve it cold or room temperature at your next get-together.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad