My kids absolutely love it, but what makes it even better in my kitchen is how simple and flexible it is. If there’s one dish that makes everyone at my table happy, it’s the famous Costco Pesto Pasta. It’s creamy, full of flavor, and takes almost no effort to make. The Kirkland Signature Basil Pesto gives the pasta a rich, garlicky taste that feels fancy, even on busy weeknights. You can make it with chicken, shrimp, or even roasted veggies, and it still tastes incredible. It’s one of those meals that feel comforting yet elegant — perfect for both lazy Sundays and unexpected guests.
I have made this recipe so many times that it’s become a go-to in my weekly rotation. I use Costco’s Kirkland Basil Pesto because it’s bold, smooth, and has that perfect balance of basil and Parmesan flavor. Always use freshly cooked pasta and don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water — it helps make the sauce silky and light.
You can serve this pesto pasta warm with grilled chicken, some garlic bread, also with a crisp Caesar salad on the side. If you want something refreshing, try pairing it with chilled lemonade or white wine.
It’s Perfect For:
- Quick weekday dinners
- Family potlucks
- Picnic or lunchbox meals
- Date-night dinners at home
- Vegetarian-friendly gatherings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta (rotini or penne works great)
- 1 cup Costco Kirkland Signature Basil Pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater for fresh Parmesan
- Airtight container (for leftovers)
How to Make Costco Pesto Pasta
Step 1
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick. Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2
Prepare the sauce base: In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and sauté for about 3–4 minutes, until they start to soften and release their juices. This adds a fresh, slightly sweet flavor to balance the richness of the pesto.
Step 3
Add the pesto: Turn the heat to low and stir in Costco’s basil pesto. Mix gently to warm it through — you don’t want to cook the pesto too long or it will lose its bright green color and fresh taste. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and make it glossy.
Step 4
Combine everything: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss well until every piece is coated in that vibrant pesto sauce. If you’re adding cooked chicken, stir it in now so it warms through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5
Finish and serve: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts for crunch. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for color and aroma. Serve warm and enjoy that signature Costco flavor at home!
Tips for Perfect Costco Pesto Pasta
- Don’t overcook the pasta.
Cook it just until al dente. The pasta will continue cooking slightly when tossed with the warm pesto sauce. - Save pasta water.
A splash of that starchy water helps the sauce stick better and keeps it from drying out. - Don’t overheat the pesto.
Pesto should be warmed gently — never fried or boiled — or it can lose its bright green color and fresh flavor. - Add cherry tomatoes for freshness.
They add a pop of sweetness and balance the salty, cheesy taste of the pesto. - Toast your pine nuts.
Just 2–3 minutes in a dry pan enhances their nutty aroma and adds a crunchy texture. - Use fresh basil for garnish.
A few leaves on top give a beautiful aroma and make the dish look restaurant-quality. - Finish with good Parmesan.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives that authentic Italian touch you’ll love.
Optional Ingredients
- Grilled chicken breast – for extra protein.
- Shrimp – adds a buttery, savory flavor.
- Spinach – for more greens and nutrients.
- Mushrooms – gives a hearty texture.
- Sundried tomatoes – a tangy twist.
- Crumbled feta – adds a creamy, salty contrast.
How to Serve Costco Pesto Pasta?
I like to serve Costco Pesto Pasta in a big white serving bowl, still warm and glossy from the sauce. The smell of basil and garlic fills the air, and I always sprinkle a generous handful of Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves on top. Sometimes, I drizzle a few drops of olive oil before serving to make it extra shiny and fragrant.
I often pair it with garlic bread or warm ciabatta slices because the bread soaks up every bit of that delicious pesto sauce. For larger meals, I’ll serve it alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables to make it more filling. A glass of white wine or iced lemonade also complements the flavors beautifully.
When I serve it at family gatherings or picnics, I turn it into a cold pasta salad. I toss it with extra olive oil, cherry tomatoes, and small mozzarella balls. It’s refreshing, colorful, and travels well — making it perfect for potlucks or outdoor meals. No matter how you serve it, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Is Costco Pesto Pasta Healthy?
Costco Pesto Pasta can be a healthy option when enjoyed in moderation. The pesto contains heart-healthy olive oil, fresh basil, and nuts that provide good fats and antioxidants. Pairing it with whole-grain pasta or adding grilled chicken and veggies can make it a balanced meal. However, since pesto is rich in oil and cheese, portion control is key if you’re watching calories.
Variations and Substitutions
- Whole Wheat Pasta Version
Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein. It gives a nutty taste and helps you feel full longer. - Creamy Pesto Alfredo
Mix in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or heavy cream for a richer, smoother sauce. Perfect for comfort food lovers. - Veggie-Loaded Pesto Pasta
Add zucchini, spinach, and broccoli to boost nutrients and color. It’s ideal for a lighter, wholesome meal. - Pesto Shrimp Pasta
Sauté shrimp in olive oil and garlic, then toss with the pesto pasta for a seafood twist. Great for date nights. - Spicy Pesto Pasta
Add red pepper flakes or a touch of chili oil for a subtle heat that cuts through the richness. - Lemon Pesto Pasta
Add a squeeze of lemon juice and zest to brighten up the flavor — it’s fresh and fragrant. - Vegan Pesto Pasta
Use vegan pesto made with nutritional yeast instead of cheese, and swap pasta for gluten-free noodles if desired. - Pesto Chicken Bake
Layer cooked pasta, pesto, shredded chicken, and mozzarella, then bake until bubbly for a cozy casserole-style meal.
How to Store and Reheat Costco Pesto Pasta
To store, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to a month, though the texture might soften slightly once thawed.
To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or a spoonful of water and warm it gently on the stove over low heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. If microwaving, cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Avoid overheating, as it can make the pesto lose its fresh flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Costco Pesto Pasta
Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes! Rotini, penne, or fusilli hold the pesto perfectly, but spaghetti, linguine, or even bowtie pasta work well too. I personally love using rotini because its spirals trap every bit of sauce.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can cook the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, then store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply warm it up and stir in the pesto for a fresh, quick meal.
What protein goes best with pesto pasta?
Grilled chicken is the classic choice, but shrimp, salmon, or even sautéed tofu taste amazing too. The key is to keep the protein lightly seasoned so it doesn’t overpower the pesto flavor.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! You can use vegan pesto made with cashews or almonds and skip the Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Costco Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta rotini or penne works great
- 1 cup Costco Kirkland Signature Basil Pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts optional
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick. Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the sauce base: In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and sauté for about 3–4 minutes, until they start to soften and release their juices. This adds a fresh, slightly sweet flavor to balance the richness of the pesto.
- Add the pesto: Turn the heat to low and stir in Costco’s basil pesto. Mix gently to warm it through — you don’t want to cook the pesto too long or it will lose its bright green color and fresh taste. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and make it glossy.
- Combine everything: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss well until every piece is coated in that vibrant pesto sauce. If you’re adding cooked chicken, stir it in now so it warms through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts for crunch. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for color and aroma. Serve warm and enjoy that signature Costco flavor at home!
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