If you’ve been looking for a dish that combines creamy, herby goodness with effortless prep, then this Ridiculously Easy Boursin Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food. Imagine perfectly cooked penne tossed in the luxurious melting richness of Boursin Fine Herbs & Garlic cheese, accented by fresh, vibrant baby spinach that adds both color and a subtle earthy note. It’s a simple, quick meal that feels indulgent without any stress, perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests with minimal fuss. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about this Ridiculously Easy Boursin Pasta Recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each component plays a crucial role: the penne gives you that perfect bite, the Boursin cheese brings richness and herbal flavor, and the fresh baby spinach adds a pop of green and a nutritious boost. It’s a trio that works beautifully together without any unnecessary extras.
- 8 ounces uncooked penne: Pick a quality pasta for the best texture; penne’s shape helps hold the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1 (5.2 ounce/150g) package Boursin Fine Herbs & Garlic cheese: This cheese is the star, delivering an irresistible blend of creaminess, garlic, and herbs.
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: Adds fresh color, nutrients, and a hint of mild earthiness that balances the richness.
How to Make Ridiculously Easy Boursin Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook your pasta to perfection
Start by boiling a generous pot of salted water — the salt helps season the pasta from the inside out. Cook the penne until it’s al dente, just tender but still with a little bite. Before draining, be sure to reserve about a cup of that pasta water; it’s liquid gold for creating the perfect sauce consistency later on.
Step 2: Create the creamy Boursin sauce
Drain the pasta and immediately return it to the pot, but take it off the heat. Add the entire package of Boursin cheese to the warm pasta and splash in a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together (using two spoons works great) until the cheese melts into a smooth, velvety sauce that perfectly coats each piece of pasta. Add more pasta water gradually if you want a thinner sauce — but be careful, a little goes a long way!
Step 3: Wilt in the baby spinach
Now fold in the packed fresh baby spinach and toss gently until the spinach is coated in that luscious sauce. Cover the pot for a minute or two to let the residual heat wilt the spinach down just enough while keeping it vibrantly green and tender. Give it a taste and add salt and pepper if you think it needs a little extra seasoning.
How to Serve Ridiculously Easy Boursin Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a handful of toasted pine nuts can elevate this pasta, adding a delightful crunch and flavor contrast. Fresh chopped parsley or a little grated Parmesan can also boost the presentation and taste, making the dish look and feel even more special.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. Think: a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess or some garlic bread to sop up any leftover sauce. Roasted cherry tomatoes or a light vegetable medley also complement the richness without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra touch, serve your Ridiculously Easy Boursin Pasta Recipe in shallow bowls with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil on top. Or add a few decorative basil leaves to play up the herbaceous notes. If you’re entertaining, consider plating individual portions with a sprig of fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon on the side for a fresh zing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your pasta, if you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. They should stay fresh for up to 2 days. The spinach might wilt further, but the flavors remain delicious and comforting.
Freezing
This Ridiculously Easy Boursin Pasta Recipe isn’t ideal for freezing because the creamy cheese sauce can separate upon thawing, changing the texture. It’s better to enjoy it fresh or store it refrigerated for short-term use.
Reheating
When it’s time to reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave it in short bursts, stirring frequently. Add a splash of water or milk if the sauce has thickened too much. This helps recapture that silky texture without drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is recommended for its sauce-holding qualities, you can swap in fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle. Just stick to similar shapes that grip sauce well for the best experience.
Is Boursin cheese easy to find in stores?
Boursin cheese is widely available in most supermarkets, typically near the specialty cheese or deli section. If you can’t find the Fine Herbs & Garlic flavor, there are other varieties that work well, though they’ll subtly change the flavor profile.
Can I add protein to this pasta?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon bits make fabulous additions and turn this quick side dish into a full meal without complicating the recipe.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, as written, this Ridiculously Easy Boursin Pasta Recipe is vegetarian-friendly, containing no meat or poultry. Just double-check your pasta ingredients to confirm they don’t contain any animal products, if that’s a concern.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Replacing Boursin cheese with a vegan creamy herb cheese spread and using plant-based pasta would be the way to go. However, it won’t taste quite the same since the cheese is the hero here. Experiment and find a version that suits your palate!
Final Thoughts
You really can’t beat the charm of this Ridiculously Easy Boursin Pasta Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, herby, fresh, and just plain satisfying, all coming together quickly with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish delivers comfort and flavor every single time. So go on, grab that Boursin cheese, knock this recipe out of the park, and enjoy every decadent bite.
