This creamy Boursin cheese pasta with broccoli is a quick and tasty dish! The cheese adds a rich flavor, while the broccoli brings a nice crunch and color. Yum!
I love how easy this meal is to whip up on busy nights. Just cook the pasta, mix in the cheese, and toss in some fresh broccoli. Dinner doesn’t get simpler than this!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I often choose farfalle for its fun shape, but any pasta like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti works well! Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great options if you need a healthier or dietary substitute.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives this dish crunch and nutrients. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli can be used – just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the sauce.
Boursin Cheese: The garlic and herb flavor adds depth to the dish. If you’re in a pinch, cream cheese mixed with garlic powder and herbs can substitute. You could also try any spreadable cheese you prefer!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, swap it for whole milk or half-and-half. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk works well, giving a unique flavor. Just be mindful of the rich taste!
How Can I Make the Cream Sauce Just Right?
The secret to achieving a creamy sauce lies in the heat and the timing! Start by sautéing garlic gently to avoid burning, which can ruin the flavor. Then, melting the Boursin into warm cream creates a smooth sauce.
- Keep the heat on medium-low when adding the cheese to help it melt evenly without scorching.
- Adding the pasta water gradually aids in achieving your desired creaminess. If the sauce seems thick, just add a spoonful of pasta water.
With these tips, you’ll have a deliciously creamy pasta that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Boursin Cheese Pasta With Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 8 oz pasta (such as farfalle or your choice)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 oz Boursin cheese (garlic & herb flavor preferred)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare—10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes of cooking time. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—just firm enough to bite. With about 3 minutes left in the cooking time, throw in the broccoli florets. They should cook until they’re crisp-tender but still vibrant green. Once done, drain both the pasta and broccoli together, remembering to save about 1/2 cup of that pasta water for later!
2. Sautéing Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes. You want it to be fragrant but careful not to let it brown, as this can give the dish a bitter taste.
3. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the Boursin cheese along with the heavy cream (or milk) into the skillet. Stir the mixture until the cheese melts completely and a smooth, creamy sauce forms. It’s going to smell amazing!
4. Combining Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together gently to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems a bit thick, you can add some of that reserved pasta water a little at a time until it’s just right for your liking.
5. Adding Finishing Touches:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all those fabulous flavors.
6. Serving:
Serve this delightful dish immediately! Top off each serving with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and fresh chopped parsley or chives if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every creamy bite of your Boursin cheese pasta with broccoli!
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe works great with farfalle, you can use any pasta you prefer such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta.
What If I Don’t Have Boursin Cheese?
No worries! If you can’t find Boursin, you can substitute it with cream cheese mixed with garlic powder and dried herbs for a similar flavor. Alternatively, any spreadable cheese with herbs will work well.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can easily make it dairy-free by using a dairy-free cream substitute, such as coconut milk or cashew cream, and a dairy-free cheese alternative in place of Boursin and Parmesan. Just make sure to choose products that melt well for the best results!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens up. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
