If you’ve been craving a pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Boursin Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with rich, velvety Boursin cheese and the fresh brightness of garlic and cherry tomatoes, every bite is a perfect balance of creamy indulgence and vibrant flavors. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but special enough to impress guests, making it my go-to recipe whenever I want comfort food with a gourmet twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work in harmony to create a dish that’s rich in flavor and smooth in texture. Each element—from the garlic’s fragrant punch to the cream’s lusciousness—plays a vital role in making the pasta sing.
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni): These shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully for every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps soften the garlic without overpowering it.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic foundation that infuses everything with warmth.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Provide a juicy, slightly sweet pop that brightens the dish.
- 1 wheel (5.2 ounces) Boursin cheese, garlic and herb flavor: The star of the show, delivering creamy tanginess and herbaceous notes.
- 0.5 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without making the dish salty.
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth.
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a hint of spicy kick.
- 0.5 cup reserved pasta water: This starchy water helps loosen and marry the sauce with the pasta.
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, savory richness as the finishing touch.
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish: Fresh herbs bring a burst of color and brightness right before serving.
How to Make Creamy Boursin Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cooking the pasta just until al dente ensures it will soak up the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining—that liquid is your secret weapon for a sauce that’s just the right consistency.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then toss in the minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds until you smell that irresistible garlic aroma filling your kitchen. Next, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften just slightly and start to release their juices, enhancing the sauce’s flavor complexity.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Turn the heat down to low and add the Boursin cheese along with the heavy cream. Gently stir until the cheese melts smoothly into the cream, creating a rich, luscious sauce. This step is crucial because keeping the heat low prevents the cheese from curdling and ensures a velvety texture.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it around to coat every piece with the flavorful sauce. Gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred sauce consistency—it should cling nicely without being too thick. Then season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little extra warmth.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and give everything one last stir to melt it into the sauce, adding a nutty, savory edge that perfectly complements the Boursin cheese.
How to Serve Creamy Boursin Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top not only adds a burst of green color but also infuses each bite with a hint of freshness. It’s these final touches that take this dish from delicious to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or crusty garlic bread to mop up every last drop of sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini also bring a pleasant contrast in texture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Creamy Boursin Pasta Recipe in individual mini cast iron skillets or elegant shallow bowls, garnished with edible flowers or a drizzle of infused olive oil. It’s perfect for making any dinner feel a bit more special without extra hassle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Because the sauce is creamy, it may thicken in the fridge but can be loosened easily when reheated with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to freeze leftovers, store them in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month. When thawing, let it defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to avoid separating the sauce.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low heat with a little bit of cream or water to restore the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it may cause the sauce to separate or become grainy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni are great for holding the sauce, feel free to use fusilli, farfalle, or your favorite pasta shape. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less rich and thick. For a dairy-free option, try a creamy plant-based milk blend and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Yes! Sautéed chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon make delicious additions. Just cook them separately and add them in with the pasta before tossing everything together.
What makes Boursin cheese unique for this dish?
Boursin cheese is creamy, herb-infused, and melts beautifully, giving the sauce a luxurious texture and distinctive flavor that simple cream cheese or other cheeses can’t quite replicate.
How spicy does this recipe get with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that balances the creaminess without overpowering the other flavors. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference or leave them out entirely.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Boursin Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that hits all the right notes—comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy those creamy pasta cravings. Give it a try and get ready to make it a staple in your kitchen!
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Creamy Boursin Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Boursin Pasta is a simple and flavorful Italian-American dish featuring tender pasta tossed in a rich and velvety sauce made with garlic and herb Boursin cheese, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan. This easy stovetop recipe combines a luscious cream sauce with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
pasta
- 12 ounces pasta such as penne or rigatoni
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 wheel (5.2 ounces) Boursin cheese, garlic and herb flavor
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 0.5 cup reserved pasta water
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 0.5 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Sauté the garlic and tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Make the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and add the Boursin cheese and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and forms a smooth creamy sauce.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce. Gradually add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen and thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Season and finish: Season the pasta with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Remove from heat.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the pasta for a fresh finish. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor and texture, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cooked chicken to the sauce.
- To ensure the Boursin cheese melts smoothly, avoid boiling the sauce; cook gently over low heat.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency easily.
