Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner! This incredibly easy recipe for Baked Boursin Pasta delivers fresh, vibrant flavors with minimal effort, making it the perfect solution for busy evenings. Imagine juicy, bursting cherry tomatoes roasted alongside creamy, herb-infused Boursin cheese, creating a luxurious sauce that clings perfectly to your favorite pasta. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, and one that the whole family is guaranteed to love.
Inspired by the viral sensations of the internet, this Boursin pasta takes convenience and taste to a whole new level. Forget complicated steps and lengthy ingredient lists; with just a handful of simple components, you’re on your way to a gourmet-tasting meal right in your own kitchen.
The Story Behind This Viral Boursin Pasta Recipe
Just like its famous cousin, the baked feta pasta that took social media by storm, this Baked Boursin Pasta recipe offers a simple, oven-baked approach to deliciousness. The moment I saw Boursin Pasta trending on platforms like TikTok, I knew I had to put my own unique spin on it. The concept is wonderfully straightforward: you roast succulent cherry tomatoes with a generous block of Boursin cheese, then toss the vibrant, bubbling mixture with freshly cooked pasta. The result is a surprisingly sophisticated and deeply satisfying meal.
While many versions of this viral sensation exist, the recipe I’m thrilled to share with you today is truly special. It draws heavily from the principles that made my Baked Feta Pasta so popular. We don’t skimp on the good stuff here – think an ample drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors, an additional touch of cheese for an even creamier, richer texture, and a minced shallot to introduce a subtle, aromatic oniony depth without overpowering the delicate Boursin. If a shallot isn’t readily available, a small amount of yellow or red onion works just as beautifully.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Boursin Pasta
This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a culinary experience waiting to happen. Here’s why this creamy Boursin pasta will quickly become a staple in your kitchen:
- Effortless Weeknight Elegance: This dish truly tastes like a weekend project, yet it comes together with such ease that it’s ideal for even the busiest weeknights. You’ll impress yourself and your family with minimal fuss.
- Simple Prep, Easier Cleanup: The magic largely happens in a single baking dish. Roasting the sauce components together means fewer pots and pans to wash, translating to a quicker and more enjoyable cleanup.
- Perfect for Ripe Cherry Tomatoes: Have a bounty of cherry tomatoes from your garden or the farmers market? This recipe is the ultimate way to utilize them, transforming their natural sweetness into an irresistible sauce.
- Easily Customizable: Dietary restrictions? No problem! This versatile recipe can be effortlessly adapted to be gluten-free by simply substituting your favorite gluten-free pasta. Plus, it’s a fantastic canvas for various flavor additions and personal touches.
Ingredients for Your Creamy Boursin Pasta
Creating this incredibly creamy and flavorful Boursin pasta requires just a handful of fresh ingredients. It’s truly amazing how much taste you can build from so few components!
- Cherry Tomatoes (or Grape Tomatoes): You’ll need about 2 pints, which translates to roughly 3 ½ to 4 cups. These small, sweet tomatoes burst beautifully in the oven, releasing their juices to form the base of our sauce. Their natural sweetness is key to balancing the richness of the Boursin.
- Boursin Cheese: The star of the show! Feel free to choose your favorite flavor – Garlic & Fine Herbs is a classic, but any Boursin variety will work wonderfully. You’ll need two smaller rounds (150g each) or one larger round (250g) for optimal creaminess and flavor.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A generous amount of good quality olive oil is essential. It helps roast the tomatoes to perfection, creates a luscious texture for the sauce, and imparts a wonderful Mediterranean aroma. While extra virgin is preferred for its robust flavor, any olive oil you have on hand will do.
- Pasta: For the ideal sauce-to-pasta ratio, aim for 12 ounces (about 340g) of your preferred medium-cut pasta. I’ve successfully made this dish with both regular wheat pasta and gluten-free alternatives. For gluten-free, I highly recommend Rummo for its excellent texture.
- Shallot: Minced shallot offers a wonderfully mild, delicate onion flavor that complements the creamy Boursin and sweet tomatoes without being too pungent. If you don’t have a shallot, about 2 tablespoons of finely minced yellow or red onion can be used as a substitute.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is added towards the end of the baking process. This prevents it from burning and becoming bitter, allowing the residual heat to gently warm it, releasing its fragrant and irresistible flavor into the sauce.
- Fresh Basil: A true secret weapon for any exceptional pasta dish! A generous handful of fresh basil, stirred in at the end, brightens the entire meal with its aromatic, sweet notes, elevating the flavors to restaurant-quality.
For precise quantities and detailed instructions, please refer to the full recipe card below.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Baked Boursin Pasta
Creating this delicious Boursin pasta is incredibly simple. Follow these easy steps to bring this creamy, flavorful dish to your table:
Step One: Prepare the Base. Begin by adding 2 pints (approximately 3 ½-4 cups) of fresh cherry tomatoes along with your finely minced shallot (or onion) to a large, oven-safe baking dish, ideally a 9×13-inch size. Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC).
Step Two: Season and Coat. Drizzle ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil over the tomatoes and shallots. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Gently stir everything together, ensuring the tomatoes and shallots are thoroughly coated in the olive oil and seasonings.
Adding the Boursin Cheese
Step Three: Incorporate the Boursin. Gently push some of the cherry tomatoes aside in the baking dish to create a clear space in the center. Carefully place your two small rounds of Boursin cheese (or one large round) into this space.
Step Four: Bake to Perfection. Transfer the baking dish to your preheated 425ºF (220ºC) oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cherry tomatoes have softened, begun to blister, and the Boursin cheese is hot, bubbly, and slightly browned on top. While the tomatoes and cheese are baking (with about 15-20 minutes remaining), bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil and cook your chosen pasta until it’s perfectly al dente, following the package directions. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the starchy pasta water.
Quick Tip: For an extra burst of flavor and beautifully blistered tomatoes, consider broiling the dish for 1-2 minutes at the very end of the baking time. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning! Ensure your baking dish is broil-safe before attempting this.
Step Five: Create the Creamy Sauce. Carefully remove the hot baking dish from the oven. Immediately add the minced garlic to the roasted tomatoes and cheese. Using the back of a wooden spoon or a fork, gently break up the blistered tomatoes and stir them vigorously into the melted Boursin cheese until a wonderfully creamy, chunky “sauce” begins to form. The residual heat from the dish will perfectly warm the garlic without cooking it harshly. Finally, stir in the fresh chopped basil, allowing its fragrance to infuse the sauce.
Step Six: Combine and Serve. Transfer your cooked and drained al dente pasta directly into the baking dish with the creamy Boursin tomato sauce. Gently fold the pasta into the sauce until every strand is beautifully coated. Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper if needed. If the sauce appears a bit too thick or dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately.
Tip: If your sauce seems a little dry, don’t hesitate to add a half cup of the reserved starchy pasta water. It helps to loosen the sauce and make it even silkier, ensuring everything is perfectly coated.
Serving Your Delicious Boursin Pasta
Garnish your freshly prepared Boursin pasta with a sprinkle of extra fresh basil for added aroma and visual appeal. A dusting of grated Parmesan cheese also makes a wonderful addition, offering a salty, nutty counterpoint to the creamy sauce. Serve warm and savor every delightful bite!
Storing and Reheating Your Boursin Pasta
One of the many benefits of this Boursin pasta recipe is how well it stores and reheats, making it excellent for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Proper storage ensures you can savor its deliciousness for days to come.
Storage Instructions:
Transfer any leftover Boursin pasta to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Reheating Instructions:
For best results, when reheating, you might need to add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture, as pasta can absorb liquids when stored.
- Microwave: This is the quickest method for individual servings. Place your desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water or milk, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Oven: For larger portions, or if you prefer an oven-fresh taste, add the pasta to an oven-safe baking dish. Stir in a few tablespoons of water or chicken/vegetable broth to prevent drying. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place the cold dish in a preheated oven at 350ºF (177ºC) and bake for 15-25 minutes, or until thoroughly heated, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Transfer the pasta to a skillet or saucepan. Add a few tablespoons of water or broth. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the pasta is warmed through and the sauce is creamy again. This method is great for restoring texture.
Expert Tips for the Best Boursin Pasta
Elevate your Boursin pasta from good to absolutely incredible with these expert tips:
- Broiling for Flavor Depth: Don’t underestimate the power of broiling! A brief stint under the broiler (1-2 minutes) at the end of baking will beautifully blister your cherry tomatoes, intensifying their sweetness and adding a delightful charred note. It also helps the Boursin cheese get wonderfully golden and toasty, which adds another layer of irresistible flavor. If your baking dish isn’t broil-safe, simply increase your oven temperature to 450ºF (232ºC) for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on the tomatoes until they achieve a similar blistered effect.
- Embrace Fresh Ingredients: While convenience is key, the quality of your ingredients truly shines in this simple dish. Using fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes, freshly minced garlic, and vibrant fresh basil will yield the most flavorful and aromatic Boursin cheese pasta. The difference between fresh and dried herbs, or pre-minced garlic, is significant here.
- Strategic Garlic Addition: The timing of adding garlic is crucial. To achieve that perfect fragrant garlic flavor without any bitterness from overcooking, add the minced garlic *after* the cherry tomatoes and Boursin have finished baking. The residual heat in the baking dish is just enough to warm the garlic, allowing it to release its beautiful aroma and mellow its raw bite, while preserving its fresh, pungent character.
- Don’t Forget Pasta Water: Always reserve a cup or two of the starchy pasta cooking water. This liquid is a secret ingredient for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. If your Boursin tomato sauce feels too thick or dry after mixing in the pasta, gradually add small amounts of pasta water until it reaches your desired creamy, luscious texture. The starch in the water helps the sauce emulsify and cling beautifully to the pasta.
Choosing the Best Pasta for Boursin Pasta
While this Boursin Pasta recipe is incredibly adaptable, the type of pasta you choose can significantly impact the dish’s texture and how well the creamy sauce adheres. I generally recommend using medium-cut pasta shapes that have nooks and crannies to capture every bit of that delicious Boursin tomato sauce. However, feel free to use 12 ounces of any pasta you like best! Here are a few of my favorites that work exceptionally well:
- Rigatoni: Its large, ridged tubes are perfect for scooping up chunky sauce and offer a satisfying bite.
- Cavatappi: These corkscrew-shaped pasta pieces are excellent at trapping creamy sauces within their spirals.
- Rotini: Similar to cavatappi, rotini’s tight spirals provide plenty of surface area for the sauce to cling.
- Fusilli: The classic “twists” of fusilli are another fantastic choice for holding rich sauces.
- Farfalle (Bow Tie): The elegant bow tie shape not only looks beautiful but also has folds that catch the sauce.
- Penne: A popular choice for baked pasta dishes, penne’s ridged tubes are versatile and hold up well.
- Mafalda: This lesser-known pasta features ruffled edges, adding a unique texture and extra “grip” for the sauce.
Gluten-Free Pasta: This recipe performs beautifully with gluten-free pasta. However, many commercial gluten-free brands can become mushy if overcooked. For the best al dente texture that holds its shape, I highly recommend Rummo brand gluten-free pasta. Alternatively, chickpea-based pastas like Banza or Chickapea also offer a great texture and an added boost of protein.
Delicious Flavor Additions and Variations
This Boursin pasta recipe is a fantastic base, but don’t hesitate to get creative and personalize it with your favorite ingredients! Here are a few suggestions to add your own special touch and elevate this delicious dinner:
- Fresh Spinach: For an added boost of greens and nutrients, stir in 2-3 handfuls of fresh spinach into the warm tomato and cheese mixture *before* adding the pasta. Stir well until the spinach has wilted beautifully into the sauce.
- A Touch of Creaminess: If you desire an even more decadent and rich sauce, stir in a drizzle (about ¼ to ½ cup) of heavy cream or half-and-half just before adding the pasta. This will create an ultra-smooth and luxurious finish.
- White Wine Infusion: Add a half cup of dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) to the baking dish with the tomatoes and Boursin before baking. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a subtle, sophisticated depth of flavor that complements the tomatoes and cheese.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Boost: For an extra-rich, concentrated tomato flavor, chop and add about ½ cup of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (drained) to the baking dish. You can add them before baking for a more integrated flavor or stir them in after for distinct bursts of intense tomato.
- Parmesan Cheese Perfection: Enhance the savory, sharp notes of the sauce by stirring in a ¼ to ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the mixture after baking. You can also garnish each serving with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor and texture.
- Sweet Caramelized Onions: For a deeper, sweeter onion flavor, caramelize one large onion separately on the stovetop until golden brown and tender. Stir these caramelized onions into the Boursin and tomato mixture after it comes out of the oven. If using caramelized onions, you can omit the raw shallot from the initial steps.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the tomatoes before baking, or sprinkle them over the finished dish.
- Protein Boost: Turn this vegetarian dish into a heartier meal by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or crumbled Italian sausage. Stir in cooked protein along with the pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boursin Pasta
Can I substitute Boursin for cream cheese in this recipe?
While Boursin and cream cheese are both soft, spreadable cheeses, they are not ideal substitutes for each other in most cooked recipes, especially pasta dishes. Boursin is a Gournay cheese, specifically formulated to be incredibly creamy and infused with herbs and garlic, which are integral to the flavor profile of this pasta. Cream cheese, on the other hand, is tangier and denser, with a different fat content and texture when heated. Using cream cheese would result in a different taste and a less smooth, less luxurious sauce. For cold applications like canapés or dips, cream cheese might work in a pinch, but for baked pasta, stick with Boursin for the best results.
Can Boursin cheese be heated?
Absolutely, Boursin cheese is excellent for heating, even at higher temperatures, as demonstrated in this baked pasta recipe! While it’s commonly enjoyed cold as a spread, Boursin softens beautifully and “melts” into a creamy, luscious consistency when warmed. This makes it perfect for creating sauces for pasta, chicken, or vegetables. Its unique texture and flavor profile hold up well under heat, making it a versatile ingredient for both hot and cold dishes.
What type of cheese is Boursin?
Boursin is a brand name for a type of soft, spreadable Gournay cheese. It’s known for its rich, fresh flavor and often comes infused with various herbs and spices, most famously Garlic & Fine Herbs. Unlike many other soft cheeses, Boursin has a uniquely smooth and creamy texture that melts wonderfully, making it ideal for incorporating into sauces or as a topping for warm dishes.
Is Boursin pasta suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Boursin pasta recipe is inherently vegetarian, as it contains no meat products. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking for a flavorful and satisfying meat-free meal. Just ensure that the pasta you choose is egg-free if you are strictly vegetarian (most dried pasta is, but always check the label).
Can I make Boursin pasta ahead of time?
While Boursin pasta is best enjoyed fresh, it does reheat well. You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, as detailed in our storing and reheating section. For optimal freshness and texture, you could also prepare the roasted tomato and Boursin sauce components ahead of time, then cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving.
More Easy Dinner Inspiration:
If you loved the simplicity and flavor of this Boursin pasta, you’re in for a treat! Discover more quick and delicious dinner ideas that are perfect for any busy night.
If you truly enjoyed this delightful recipe for Boursin Pasta, please consider leaving a 5-star review in the comments section below! Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps others discover this amazing dish. You can also share your culinary creations with me on Instagram by tagging @dashfordinner. I love seeing your delicious results!
Baked Boursin Pasta
Made with simple ingredients, this fresh and flavorful Boursin pasta recipe is one that the whole family will love!
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Main Dishes
Cuisine: American, Italian, Mediterranean
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 37 minutes
Total Time: 47 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 607 kcal
Author: Dorothy Bigelow
Equipment
- 9 X 13″ baking dish (23 X 33cm)
Ingredients
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes (3 ½- 4 cups)
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 shallot minced (or ½ small onion)
- 2 rounds Boursin cheese (150g each, or 1 large (250g) round)
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil
Pasta
- 12 ounces medium-cut pasta
- Boiling salted water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC).
- Add the cherry tomatoes and minced shallot (or onion) to a large, broil-safe 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour in the olive oil.
- Add salt and pepper to your taste and toss the cherry tomatoes and minced shallot with olive oil to coat everything completely.
- Make a well in the center of the baking dish large enough for the round(s) of Boursin cheese and place it in the middle.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cherry tomatoes blister and the Boursin begins to brown.
- When there are 10-15 minutes left in the baking time, fill a large pot with hot water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then add in your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Once the pasta is al dente, drain it in a colander over the sink, reserving about a cup of the starchy pasta water. Keep the pasta warm.
- Once your baking time is up for the tomatoes and Boursin, you can optionally set the oven to “broil” for 2-3 minutes to blister the tomatoes further and toast the cheese. Only do this if you have a broil-safe pan and watch closely to prevent burning.
- Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven, then add in 3 minced garlic cloves. Use the bottom of a wooden spoon or a fork to break up the tomatoes, and stir them into the Boursin to make a creamy and chunky “sauce.”
- Add in the fresh basil and stir to combine.
- Finally, add in the cooked pasta and stir until it is coated in the Boursin and cherry tomato mixture. Add salt and pepper to your taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Serve with additional fresh basil (if desired), and enjoy.
Notes
- Adapted from my recipe for Baked Feta Pasta.
- Storing: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. For the best results, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring, or in a saucepan on the stovetop with 1-2 tablespoons of water added. You could also reheat it covered in the oven at 350ºF (177ºC) until heated through.
- Gluten-free: Swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. I like Rummo, or Chickpea pasta like Banza or Chickapea.
Nutrition (per serving)
Carbohydrates: 75g |
Protein: 14g |
Fat: 29g |
Saturated Fat: 4g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 20g |
Cholesterol: 1mg |
Sodium: 36mg |
Potassium: 741mg |
Fiber: 5g |
Sugar: 9g |
Vitamin A: 1268 IU |
Vitamin C: 56mg |
Calcium: 54mg |
Iron: 3mg
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