Boursin Pasta
Boursin Pasta is a delightful fusion of creamy, garlicky goodness stirred together with tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a touch of zest. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked gemelli pasta enveloped in a velvety sauce made from garlic and herb Boursin cheese, mingling beautifully with vibrant spinach and bursting cherry tomatoes. This dish strikes the perfect balance between comforting and fresh, making it an instant favorite in any home.
I still remember the first time I made Boursin Pasta. I had a craving for something creamy but didn’t want the heaviness of traditional Alfredo. As luck would have it, I had a package of garlic and herb Boursin cheese sitting in my fridge — and like a bolt of inspiration, I knew it was meant to be! This recipe became a family go-to. It’s quick, incredibly easy, and always earns rave reviews. I can’t wait for you to experience this delightful dish.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just about 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy Boursin and fresh vegetables creates a flavor explosion.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The colorful mix of spinach and cherry tomatoes makes for a feast for the eyes.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect as a main course, side dish, or even for meal prep.
- Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily make it gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth: This adds depth of flavor and enhances the sauce’s richness. You can substitute vegetable broth for a lighter version.
- ½ cup half and half: For creaminess without being too heavy. If you prefer a lighter option, use milk or a non-dairy milk alternative.
- ½ chicken bouillon cube: Boosts the flavor. Vegetable bouillon works well as a substitute.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tanginess that elevates the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce: Just a dash for a bit of heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Gives a umami kick to the dish; can be omitted for a lighter flavor.
- ½ teaspoon each: dried oregano, basil, parsley, onion powder: These herbs add color and flavor; fresh herbs can be used in their place if available.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used for sautéing garlic; it brings a lovely flavor to the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic base.
- 2 tablespoons flour: Thickens the sauce, making it creamy and luscious.
- 5.2 oz. garlic and herb Boursin, cut into fourths: The star of our dish, it adds intense flavor and creaminess.
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Enhances the cheesiness; feel free to use a vegan alternative if needed.
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes: Sweet bursts of flavor that balance the richness of the sauce.
- 2 cups packed baby spinach, roughly chopped: Adds freshness and nutrition; can substitute with kale if desired.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens and balances the dish with acidity.
- 8 oz. gemelli pasta: A fun shape that holds the sauce well; any pasta shape can work here.
How to Make Boursin Pasta
Prep the Sauce: In a large measuring cup with a spout, combine 1 ½ cups chicken broth, ½ cup half and half, ½ chicken bouillon cube, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon hot sauce, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, and the dried herbs. Set this mixture aside while you gather the rest of your ingredients.
Boil the Pasta: Begin boiling a pot of salted water for the pasta while you continue with the sauce preparation.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Make the Roux: Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring continuously for 1 to 2 minutes, until the raw flour smell dissipates.
Add the Sauce Mixture: Gradually pour in the sauce mixture you prepared earlier. Stir continuously as it comes to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer. Partially cover the skillet while the pasta cooks.
Incorporate the Goodies: Once your gemelli pasta is cooked and drained, pour it straight into the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Boursin, ¼ cup grated Parmesan, and 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes. The Boursin will melt into a creamy sauce as you stir.
Add Spinach & Serve: Toss in 2 cups of chopped baby spinach and let it wilt for about 2 minutes. Squeeze in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and stir to combine. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly before serving. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Storing & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 days. For freezing, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or half and half to maintain creaminess since the pasta may absorb some sauce during storage.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid Clumps: When adding the sauce mixture, do so gradually to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: If using fresh herbs, you’ll need to double the amount to match the flavor profile adequately.
- Pasta Timing: Ensure to cook the pasta just shy of al dente as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of white wine when sautéing the garlic.
- One-Pot Wonder: To save on dishes, you can cook the pasta in the same skillet as the sauce – just ensure to adjust the liquid amounts accordingly.
There’s something so comforting about Boursin Pasta, making it a cozy option on a chilly evening or a quick solution for a dinner gathering. The creamy Boursin, fresh veggies, and warm herbs create a dish that invites everyone to the table. I encourage you to get creative with this recipe. Maybe you’ll want to try chicken, shrimp, or even different veggies based on what you love? Enjoy this creamy masterpiece; every bite is truly an experience!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use other kinds of pasta?
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Can I use homemade version of Boursin cheese?
What’s the best way to reheat Boursin Pasta?
⭐ If you make my Boursin Pasta recipe, Awesome! I would love to hear from you. Please give it a star rating and review below! 👇
Boursin Pasta
Boursin Pasta is a delightful dish that combines creamy garlic and herb cheese with fresh ingredients for a quick, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying!
- Prep Time 15 minutes
- Cook Time 30 minutes
- Yield 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup half and half
- ½ chicken bouillon cube
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon each: dried oregano, basil, parsley, onion powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 5.2 oz. garlic and herb boursin, cut into fourths
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups packed baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 8 oz. gemelli pasta
Instructions
- Combine the sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup with a spout and set aside. Measure out remaining ingredients before beginning.
- Boil a pot of salted water for the pasta while proceeding with the following steps.
- Add butter and garlic to a large skillet over medium heat and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes, until the raw flour smell is gone.
- Slowly add the sauce mixture, stirring continuously. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover partially while the pasta cooks. Drain once the pasta is cooked.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the Boursin, Parmesan, and tomatoes. The Boursin will melt into the sauce as you stir.
- Stir in the spinach and let it wilt, about 2 minutes. Add the pasta and lemon juice, and stir to combine. The sauce will thicken upon standing. Serve!
Notes
For extra flavor, sauté additional veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
You can substitute gemelli pasta with any other pasta type of your choice.
Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Nutritional information is an estimate. The nutritional values for your final dish may vary based on measuring differences and products used.
