Are you craving a quick, indulgent meal that will impress family and friends? Look no further than our Creamy Boursin Pasta recipe, a perfect combination of simplicity and rich, savory flavors. This dish, inspired by the viral TikTok Boursin Pasta, transforms a handful of basic ingredients into a creamy, luxurious pasta dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or something fancy for your next dinner party, this Boursin pasta will exceed expectations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not only a breeze to make but also checks all the boxes when it comes to flavor, texture, and versatility. The Boursin cheese, with its garlic and herb notes, melts seamlessly into a luscious sauce, pairing beautifully with the roasted tomatoes. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 10 oz Dry Pasta (any variety): Choose your favorite pasta shape, such as penne, farfalle, or spaghetti.
- (2) 5.2 oz Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs Cheese: The star of the show, this soft cheese adds both a creamy texture and a herby flavor.
- 10 oz Grape Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are a great alternative if grape tomatoes aren’t available.
- 3 Garlic Cloves, Minced: Fresh garlic enhances the richness of the sauce.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil: For roasting the tomatoes and adding depth to the sauce.
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning: A flavorful mix of herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil.
- 1 cup Reserved Pasta Water: This starchy water will help thin and enhance the sauce.
- Salt & Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: For seasoning to taste.
- Fresh Basil: An optional garnish that adds freshness and color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Boursin Tomato Sauce
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large baking dish, add the Boursin cheese and grape tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle the minced garlic and Italian seasoning over the top. Season generously with salt and black pepper to your taste.
Pop the dish into the oven and roast for about 30-35 minutes, until the tomatoes have softened and begun to burst, and the cheese is melted into a velvety sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While your sauce is roasting, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water generously—this is your only chance to season the pasta itself. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it, but be sure to reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. This is the secret to a perfectly creamy sauce.
Step 3: Combine the Sauce and Pasta
Once the Boursin and tomatoes are done roasting, take the baking dish out of the oven. Stir the mixture to combine the melted cheese with the roasted tomatoes. If some of the tomatoes haven’t burst, gently press them with the back of a spoon to release their juices.
Next, add the cooked pasta directly to the sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy Boursin and tomato mixture. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Usually, about ½ cup is perfect.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the pasta to plates or bowls and finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. For extra flair, consider adding freshly grated parmesan cheese, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, or even some lemon zest.
Enjoy your creamy Boursin pasta immediately, while it’s hot and the flavors are at their peak.
Expert Tips for Perfect Boursin Pasta
- Don’t Skimp on the Salt: Salt your pasta water generously—think of it like seawater. This will enhance the overall flavor of the pasta and sauce.
- Save That Pasta Water: Adding starchy pasta water to the sauce ensures a rich, velvety texture. If you plan to have leftovers, saving a little extra will help rehydrate the sauce during reheating.
- Customize the Recipe: Want to add more complexity? Feel free to toss in some sautéed mushrooms, sliced bell peppers, or a handful of spinach before baking the sauce.
Optional Variations
While the classic Boursin cheese and tomato pasta recipe is a hit on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your dietary preferences or flavor cravings.
Gluten-Free Version
Switch out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. With so many excellent gluten-free options available today, you won’t even notice a difference in texture or flavor.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Version
Good news for plant-based eaters: Boursin offers a vegan cheese alternative that works perfectly in this recipe. To make the dish fully vegan, roast the tomatoes with garlic and olive oil, then stir in the vegan Boursin at the end for a dairy-free twist on the classic.
Add Protein for a Heartier Meal
If you’re looking to add some protein to your plate, this pasta is a great base. Consider mixing in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even Italian sausage for a more filling dish. The mild flavors of the Boursin cheese sauce complement proteins beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
While this creamy Boursin pasta can stand on its own as a main course, it pairs wonderfully with a few side dishes to round out the meal.
- Garlic Bread: There’s nothing better than crispy garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of the creamy Boursin sauce.
- Side Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try serving this pasta with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
Storing and Reheating Boursin Pasta
Leftovers of this creamy pasta dish are a real treat, so here’s how to store and reheat them for maximum deliciousness.
Refrigerating
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If possible, set aside a little reserved pasta water in a separate container; it will help revive the sauce when reheating.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this pasta! Portion out individual servings into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. To prevent the sauce from drying out, freeze some pasta water alongside your portions.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave the pasta in 45-second intervals, stirring in between. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of your reserved pasta water or regular water to loosen it up. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding water as needed.
Final Thoughts
With minimal ingredients and a short prep time, this creamy Boursin pasta recipe is a surefire way to elevate your dinner game. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight meal or serving it at a fancy gathering, this dish is bound to impress. The roasted tomatoes burst with flavor, the Boursin cheese melts into a smooth, garlicky sauce, and the pasta absorbs it all for a mouthwatering experience. Give it a try today and enjoy a pasta dish that’s creamy, indulgent, and incredibly easy to make.
