Craving a creamy, flavorful dinner? Look no further than Baked Boursin Pasta! This simple dish combines tender pasta, rich Boursin cheese, and fresh veggies for a meal that delights your taste buds. You’ll enjoy each step of this easy process, and in just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece. Ready to impress yourself and your guests? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Creaminess: This recipe features Boursin cheese, which adds a rich, creamy texture that makes each bite indulgent and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights yet feels like a special occasion meal.
- One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one oven-safe skillet minimizes cleanup, making it a practical choice for any home cook.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The addition of cherry tomatoes and baby spinach brings a burst of freshness, balancing the richness of the cheese.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (garlic and herb)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
Seasoning and Garnish
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
When making Baked Boursin Pasta, you want the best flavors. Start with your pasta. I love fusilli or penne. These shapes hold sauce well. You need 12 ounces for a perfect serving.
Next, grab a package of Boursin cheese. The garlic and herb flavor is key. This 5.2-ounce package adds a creamy touch that makes the dish shine.
Cherry tomatoes are your next ingredient. Halve one cup of these juicy gems. They bring sweetness and color.
You also need baby spinach. I use one cup. It wilts down nicely and adds nutrition.
For a creamy base, use one cup of vegetable broth and ½ cup of heavy cream. They blend well with the cheese.
Grated Parmesan cheese adds depth. Use half a cup for a nice finish.
Don’t forget olive oil! You’ll need two tablespoons. It helps to sauté and adds flavor.
Finally, season with salt and pepper. Fresh basil makes a lovely garnish. It adds a pop of color and freshness.
These ingredients combine to create a simple and flavorful delight.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook 12 oz of pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
Cooking the Base
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Combining Ingredients
- Stir in 1 cup of baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix 1 package of Boursin cheese, 1 cup of vegetable broth, ½ cup of heavy cream, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Assembling the Dish
- Combine the cooked pasta with the vegetable mix and Boursin mixture in the skillet.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before baking.
Baking and Serving
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly, then garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dish
To get the best texture with your pasta, cook it until it is al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. If you overcook it, the pasta will become mushy when baked. Fusilli or penne are great choices, as they hold sauce well.
When choosing Boursin cheese, I suggest the garlic and herb flavor. Its rich taste adds depth to the dish. You can also try the pepper flavor for a little heat.
Cooking Techniques
Sautéing the garlic and tomatoes brings out their natural flavors. Cook them until the tomatoes soften, about 2-3 minutes. Baking the pasta allows the cheese to melt and creates a creamy sauce.
For even cooking of vegetables, cut them into similar sizes. This way, they cook at the same rate. Add spinach last, as it wilts quickly.
Presentation Tips
For garnishing, fresh basil adds color and a burst of flavor. Simply tear the leaves and sprinkle them on top before serving.
Serve your Baked Boursin Pasta with a side salad or garlic bread. A light, crisp salad balances the dish nicely. Garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Fusilli or penne are great choices as their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce better, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Mix Before Baking: Ensure the pasta is well-coated with the Boursin mixture before baking for a more even flavor throughout the dish.
- Let It Rest: Allow the pasta to cool slightly after baking; this helps the sauce thicken up a bit and makes for easier serving.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can try different Boursin flavors for fun twists. The shallot and chive or pepper flavors both work well. If you want some veggies, toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These swaps add color and nutrients to your meal.
Dietary Adjustments
For a vegan version, use a plant-based cream and cheese. Many brands offer great dairy-free options. You can also choose gluten-free pasta. Rice or chickpea pasta are excellent choices that keep the dish tasty.
Flavor Enhancements
Want more flavor? Add red pepper flakes or Italian herbs like oregano. They give your dish a nice kick. You can also mix in cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein. This turns your pasta into a complete meal that satisfies.
Storage Info
Leftovers and Reheating
To store uneaten Baked Boursin Pasta, allow it to cool first. Place leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When you reheat, do so slowly. Use the oven or microwave to warm it up. If using the oven, cover the dish with foil. This keeps the pasta moist. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze Baked Boursin Pasta. Here’s how:
1. Cool Completely: Wait until the pasta is at room temperature.
2. Portion It: Divide into single servings or keep it whole.
3. Use Freezer Bags: Place in freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as you can.
4. Label and Date: Mark the bags with the date and contents.
5. Freeze: Store in the freezer for up to three months.
To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned before, ensuring it warms evenly. Enjoy your pasta just as delicious as the first time!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can swap Boursin cheese for other creamy cheeses. Cream cheese or goat cheese work well. You might also try ricotta for a milder taste. Each cheese adds a unique flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment with your favorites.
How can I make it spicier?
To add some heat, consider using red pepper flakes. Mix a teaspoon into the Boursin cheese blend. You can also add fresh jalapeños or hot sauce. These options can give your pasta a nice kick. Adjust the spice to match your taste.
What side dishes pair well with Baked Boursin Pasta?
Salads complement this dish nicely. A simple arugula salad adds freshness. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a hearty touch. Both options balance the creamy pasta well. Enjoy your meal with these tasty sides!
In this blog post, we explored how to create a delicious Baked Boursin Pasta. We covered key ingredients, like Boursin cheese, cherry tomatoes, and baby spinach. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparation and baking. I shared tips for perfect texture and presentation. Remember, you can easily customize this dish with different ingredients or spices.
Enjoy your cooking and savor each bite of this creamy pasta deligh
