large bowl of gluten free pasta with dairy free creamy pesto pasta sauce with basil leaves

Creamy Basil Pesto Pasta Sauce Recipe Gluten Free Dairy Free

This Dairy Free Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce Recipe is Indulgently Creamy, Completely Dairy-Free, and Gluten-Free Giving Pasta Night an Upgrade!

Back in the day, when dairy and I were still friends, I always chose white sauce over red for my pasta. That creamy texture, velvety goodness wrapping around the noodles? Absolute perfection. Fast forward to my current dairy-free, gluten-free life, and scrolling Pinterest was like a cruel game of “look but don’t touch.” I’d see those dreamy creamy pasta dishes and feel a twinge of sadness. Seeing the vegan version? Let’s just say I was skeptical.

But then, this past summer, my garden blessed me with a basil bonanza. That’s when I got to work and created this recipe. Now, it is my favorite way to use up a large garden harvest of fresh herbs, I can’t stop thinking about it! It’s so good that I’m committed to planting an absurd amount of basil every year. Don’t have a garden? No worries—store-bought fresh basil works just as well. In fact, we whipped this up with fresh grocery store basil for Christmas, serving it alongside a red sauce for a festive green-and-red holiday dinner. It was hands down my favorite allergen-friendly holiday meal ever. Who knew creamy, dairy-free pasta could be such a game-changer?

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bowl of penne noodles with gluten free dairy free creamy pesto sauce

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce

  • Allergy-Friendly: It’s completely dairy-free and gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Creamy and Delicious: Despite being dairy-free, it delivers that rich, luscious texture you crave in a creamy pasta sauce.
  • Easy and Versatile: This recipe is simple to make and works with a variety of pasta types or even as a sauce for veggies or protein.
Pestle and Mortar with walnuts for making homemade pesto

What Equipment is Needed for this Recipe

For this creamy vegan pesto pasta recipe, you’ll need the following equipment:

Colander – To drain the cooked pasta.

Large Pot – For cooking your gluten-free pasta.

Medium Sauce Pan- Used to make the gluten free, dairy free creamy pesto pasta sauce.

Immersion Blender or Food Processor – To blend the basil into a homemade vegan pesto sauce.

Pestle and Mortar (Optional)- I love using this traditional method for making pesto, even though we aren’t necessarily making a traditional pesto —it gives the sauce a rustic texture and old-world charm!

ingredients laying on counter top of fresh basil, dairy free cream cheese, walnuts and dairy free ingredients

Simple Ingredients for Homemade Basil Pesto Sauce

  • Fresh Basil: Use 2 ounces of fresh basil leaves, which is about 2 cups. You can grab some from the grocery store, farmer’s market, or your backyard garden.
  • Walnuts: These add a creamy texture and nutty flavor to the pesto.
  • Dairy-Free Butter: “Plant butter” or margarine works perfectly to keep this recipe dairy-free.
  • Gluten-Free Flour Blend: I recommend King Arthur’s Measure for Measure Blend—my go-to for gluten-free cooking and baking.
  • Plant-Based Milk of Choice: I use gluten-free certified oat milk because its neutral flavor pairs perfectly with this recipe. Almond milk or cashew milk also works well.
  • Dairy-Free Cream Cheese: My favorite brand for this is “Follow Your Heart,” but feel free to use your preferred option.
  • Salt and Spices: These elevate and balance all the flavors in the dish.
  • Olive Oil: A key ingredient to bring the pesto sauce together smoothly.
  • Garlic Cloves: Because no Italian-inspired dish is complete without it—it’s an absolute must!
  • Nutritional Yeast: While optional, nutritional yeast adds a savory, cheesy flavor, making it a great dairy-free substitute.
  • Perfectly Cooked Gluten-Free Pasta: Cook your pasta until it’s al dente for the best texture and to help it hold up well when mixed with the pesto sauce.
how to make a dairy free pesto sauce with a pestle and mortar

Overview of Instructions:

How to Make Your Own Easy Vegan Pesto Recipe

Follow the Recipe Card for full instructions:

Method 1: Using a Pestle and Mortar

Traditionally, pesto is made using a pestle and mortar. The advantage of this method is that the walnuts are ground into a smooth paste solely using their natural oils, without the addition of any other oils.

  1. Place the walnuts in the pestle.
  2. Use the mortar to grind the walnuts into a smooth paste.
  3. Add salt to the walnut paste and mix well.
  4. Gently pack the ground walnuts, salt, garlic cloves and fresh basil leaves into a quart-sized mason jar.
  5. Pour in the extra virgin olive oil.
  6. Use an immersion blender to blend all ingredients together until the pesto is smooth and creamy.

Method 2: Using a Food Processor

For convenience and if you don’t have a pestle and mortar, this method also creates a delicious, creamy pesto pasta sauce.

  1. Combine: Place the oil and walnuts in the food processor.
  2. Pulse: Pulse until the walnuts are finely chopped.
  3. Add Salt: Add salt and garlic cloves, then pulse again briefly to combine.
  4. Blend with Basil: Add the fresh basil leaves to the food processor.
  5. Blend: Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You may need to scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times.

Alternatively: Short on time? Use store-bought dairy-free pesto, like the one from Trader Joe’s. You’ll need 1/2 cup for this recipe. Once the sauce is ready, taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

step by step photo instructions for how to make dairy free creamy pesto pasta sauce

How to Make This Dairy Free Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce

For full instructions and ingredient amounts of the pesto ingredients, follow the Recipe Card.

  1. Prepare the Pesto: Start by making your homemade pesto and set it aside.
  2. Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt dairy-free butter over medium-high heat until fully melted.
  3. Make the Roux: Reduce the heat to medium heat, sprinkle in the gluten-free flour, and stir continuously. Cook the roux until it starts to bubble, then continue cooking for one more minute.
  4. Add Pesto and Seasonings: Stir the pesto and any additional seasonings into the roux until well combined.
  5. Incorporate Dairy-Free Milk: Gradually whisk in your dairy-free milk substitute, ensuring the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
  6. Finish with Cream Cheese: Add the dairy-free cream cheese and whisk until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and ready to serve.
  7. Serve: Add your favorite cooked gluten free, dairy free pasta following the package instructions
     and enjoy!
    • Tip: This dairy-free creamy pesto pasta sauce is perfectly portioned for a 16-ounce box of your favorite pasta and has enough sauce to mix in a pound of cooked chicken for a hearty pasta dish that the whole family will enjoy.
large bowl full of gluten free pesto pasta with creamy sauce and a bowl of fresh basil

Tips and Variations for Dairy-Free Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce:

  1. Add a Bright Boost: Finish the sauce with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy, refreshing touch that enhances the pesto’s flavor. Start with 1-2 teaspoons and adjust to your liking.
  2. Enhance the Creaminess: For a richer, velvety texture, replace part of the dairy-free milk with canned coconut cream or unsweetened cashew cream. This adds depth without overshadowing the pesto.
  3. Include Chicken: This dairy-free creamy pesto pasta sauce yields a generous amount, making it perfect for stirring in one pound of cooked chicken for a satisfying, protein-packed meal.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this dairy-free creamy pesto pasta sauce over Jovial Gluten-Free Penne Pasta, paired with grilled chicken breasts and my gluten-free focaccia bread for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Want more Gluten Free Sauces? Try my Gluten Free White Sauce Béchamel Recipe or a fan favorite: The Best Cilantro Lime Crema Sauce For Tacos


FAQ for Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, warm it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of dairy-free milk to adjust the consistency.

Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring to restore its creamy texture.

What Pasta Works Best with This Sauce?

This creamy pesto pairs wonderfully with gluten-free pasta like Jovial Gluten-Free Penne or spaghetti. Choose your favorite shape to suit the dish!

Can I Make It Nut-Free?

Yes, for a nut-free version, use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds in place of walnuts for the pesto. It still delivers a deliciously creamy and flavorful sauce.

Can I Add Vegetables?

Absolutely! Stir in roasted or steamed vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or broccoli for added color, flavor, and nutrition.

gluten free dairy free homemade basil pesto sauce on gluten free penne pasta noodles and a side of bread

Thank You For Reading!

As a stay-at-home mom, your support means the world to me! I hope you love this recipe as much as we do. If you try it, let me know in the comments below—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!

Don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest, share it with a friend, or leave a review to help others discover it. And if you’re on Instagram, tag me @joanna_overly so I can see your delicious creations. Your support helps me continue creating new recipes—thank you so much!

large bowl of gluten free penne pasta with dairy free pesto pasta sauce and fresh basil leaves on top

Creamy Dairy Free Gluten Free Pesto Pasta Sauce

Joanna
Indulge in this rich, creamy pesto pasta sauce—dairy-free, gluten-free, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. Perfect over gluten-free pasta or paired with chicken, it’s a simple, wholesome dish the whole family will love!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 8 ounce
Calories 1058 kcal

Equipment

  • colander
  • Medium Sauce Pan
  • Large Pot
  • Immersion Blender or Food Processor –
  • Pestle and Mortar (Optional)

Ingredients
  

To Make Dairy Free Pesto

  • 2 Cups Fresh Basil Leaves about 2 ounces by weight
  • 1/4 Cup Walnuts can substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut free alternative.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 3 Garlic Cloves

Gluten Free Dairy Free Cream Sauce

  • 2 Tablespoons Dairy-Free Butter Plant butter or margarine
  • 2 Tablespoons Gluten-Free Flour Blend I recommend King Arthur’s Measure for Measure Blend
  • 1 1/2 Cup Plant-Based Milk of Choice I use gluten-free certified oat milk
  • 8 ounces Dairy-Free Cream Cheese My favorite brand for this is "Follow Your Heart"
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1-3 Tablespoons Nutritional Yeast optional
  • 16 Ounces Cooked Gluten-Free Pasta follow the packaging instructions

Instructions
 

How to Make Homemade Dairy Free Pesto With Food Processor

  • (If using a pestle and mortar, see notes for instructions.)
  • Combine: Place the oil and walnuts in the food processor.
  • Pulse: Pulse until the walnuts are finely chopped.
  • Add Salt: Add salt and garlic cloves, then pulse again briefly to combine.
  • Blend with Basil: Add the fresh basil leaves to the food processor.
  • Blend: Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You may need to scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times.
  • You've now made homemade pesto, set it aside.
  • In a large stock pot, start cooking your gluten free pasta of choice following the package instructions.

Make the Creamy Pasta Sauce

  • Melt the Dairy Free Butter: In a medium sauce pan, melt the dairy-free butter over medium-high heat until fully melted.
  • Make the Roux: Reduce the heat to medium heat, sprinkle in the gluten-free flour, and stir continuously. Cook the roux until it starts to bubble, then continue cooking for one more minute.
  • Add the Pesto and Seasonings: Stir in the pesto, salt, garlic powder and onion powder into the roux until well combined.
  • Incorporate Dairy-Free Milk: Gradually whisk in your dairy-free milk substitute, ensuring the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
  • Cook: for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, and be careful not to burn the roux. The sauce should be gently bubbling.
  • Finish with Cream Cheese: Add the dairy-free cream cheese and whisk until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and ready to serve.
  • Serve: Toss the sauce with your favorite cooked gluten-free, dairy-free pasta, following the package instructions for perfectly cooked noodles and enjoy!

Notes

Traditionally, pesto is made using a pestle and mortar. The advantage of this method is that the walnuts are ground into a smooth paste solely using their natural oils, without the addition of any other oils.
    1. Place the walnuts in the pestle.
    2. Use the mortar to grind the walnuts into a smooth paste.
    3. Add salt to the walnut paste and mix well.
    4. Gently pack the ground walnuts, salt, garlic cloves and fresh basil leaves into a quart-sized mason jar.
    5. Pour in the extra virgin olive oil.
    6. Use an immersion blender to blend all ingredients together until the pesto is smooth and creamy.
Alternatively: Short on time? You can skip making homemade pesto and grab a dairy-free version from stores like Trader Joe’s. You’ll need 1/2 cup of pesto for the recipe.
Tip: This dairy-free creamy pesto pasta sauce is perfect for a 16-ounce box of pasta and a pound of cooked chicken, making a hearty, family-friendly dish.
Not Dairy-Free but Gluten-Free?
Simply swap the dairy-free ingredients for their regular dairy counterparts to enjoy this delicious gluten-free creamy pesto sauce!
For FAQs, please refer to the full blog post.

Nutrition

Calories: 1058kcalCarbohydrates: 151gProtein: 19gFat: 45gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 0.5mgSodium: 623mgPotassium: 252mgFiber: 9gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 983IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 198mgIron: 2mg
Keyword gluten free, Gluten Free Pasta
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pinterst image showing bowls of dairy free gluten free creamy pesto penne pasta noodles topped with green sauce

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