Creamy Boursin Cheese Pasta

If you’re searching for a quick, comforting dinner that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than this Creamy Boursin Cheese Pasta. With its luscious, herb-infused cheese sauce and a medley of fresh vegetables, this dish feels indulgent without being complicated. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering, this recipe delivers creamy, dreamy pasta perfection that everyone will love.

Why This Recipe Works

This Creamy Boursin Cheese Pasta hits all the right notes: rich, creamy, fresh, and vibrant. The star of the show, Boursin cheese, melts effortlessly into a silky sauce that clings beautifully to every bite of pasta. The addition of sautéed onions and garlic builds a robust flavor base, while cherry tomatoes add a juicy burst of sweetness. Spinach brings a fresh, earthy note and a pop of color. Using chicken or vegetable broth keeps the sauce light yet flavorful, balancing the creaminess perfectly. The final touch of fresh basil elevates the dish with an aromatic freshness that makes it irresistible.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 8 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine work wonderfully)
• 1 cup Boursin cheese (herb and garlic flavor recommended)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 small onion, diced (adds sweetness and depth)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for aromatic punch)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (bursting with juiciness)
• 1 cup spinach leaves (fresh and tender)
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (adds moisture and flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil (for garnish and herbal brightness)

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large pot – to boil the pasta.
• Large skillet – for sautéing vegetables and melting the cheese.
• Colander – to drain the cooked pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce.
• Chef’s knife – to dice onion, mince garlic, and halve tomatoes.

Cook Creamy Boursin Cheese Pasta Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta—penne or fettuccine—and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for the sauce if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-5 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. Add the spinach leaves and cook until just wilted, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Lower the heat and add the Boursin cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece in the rich Boursin cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves. For an extra pop of flavor, drizzle a little olive oil on top. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, herby goodness!

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Add roasted red peppers for a smoky sweetness—try this with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Penne for inspiration.
• Swap spinach for kale or arugula in the fall for a peppery twist.
• In summer, toss in fresh basil and oregano to heighten the herbaceous notes.
• Winter calls for adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized shallots for earthiness.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Sauce too thick: Gradually add reserved pasta water or more broth to loosen the sauce without diluting flavor.
• Sauce too thin: Simmer the sauce a bit longer to reduce excess liquid or add a little more Boursin cheese for thickness.
• Pasta overcooked: Always cook pasta al dente; it will hold up better when mixed with the sauce.
• Garlic burned: Cook garlic on medium-low heat and add it after the onions to avoid bitterness.

How to Store & Reheat

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to the pasta and warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to restore the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving without adding liquid, as the sauce may become dry and clumpy.

Quick Q&A

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Boursin?

Absolutely! While Boursin gives a unique herby creaminess, you can substitute with cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs or a soft goat cheese for a similar effect.

Is it better to use penne or fettuccine?

Both work beautifully. Penne holds sauce well in its tubes, while fettuccine offers a silky experience with its flat ribbons. Choose based on your texture preference.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian-friendly creamy pasta dish.

How do I make the sauce extra creamy?

Adding a splash of cream or a tablespoon of butter while melting the Boursin cheese can enhance creaminess even more. Just be mindful of balancing flavors.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Alfredo Ziti – a lighter take on creamy pasta using roasted cauliflower.
• Whole wheat penne pasta – increases fiber without sacrificing taste.
• Adding extra fresh veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for more nutrients.
• Using low-sodium broth to control salt levels.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have everything lined up, cooking this Creamy Boursin Cheese Pasta is a breeze. From boiling pasta to melting that irresistible Boursin cheese sauce, the steps are simple and the payoff is huge. Whether you’re making a quick solo dinner or feeding family and friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.

This dish pairs perfectly with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. And if you want to switch things up, try incorporating seasonal vegetables or experimenting with different fresh herbs. The versatility of this recipe means it can adapt to whatever you have on hand while still delivering that signature creamy, cheesy comfort.

Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite of this luscious, herb-infused pasta!

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