This Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli brings together elegance and simplicity in one creamy, delicious dish. Using just a handful of wholesome ingredients, it delivers a luxurious sauce infused with the herby richness of Boursin cheese, balanced by the brightness and crunch of steamed broccoli. The pasta becomes the perfect vehicle to carry the smooth, garlicky cheese sauce, while hints of olive oil and sautéed garlic add aromatic depth.
Perfect for weeknights when you crave something indulgent yet easy, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes and doesn’t sacrifice flavor for speed. The Boursin cheese melts beautifully into the pasta water to form a luscious sauce without the need for heavy cream or complex ingredients. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or just treat yourself to a cozy plate of pasta, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite type)
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1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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5.2 oz Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese
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1/2 cup pasta water
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon zest, fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Stir in the Boursin cheese and splash in the reserved pasta water. Stir continuously until cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce that coats the pasta.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add red pepper flakes or lemon zest if desired.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why This Creamy Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli Is a Must-Try Dish
Creamy Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli is the ultimate comfort food with a sophisticated twist. This recipe takes humble pantry ingredients—pasta, cheese, and broccoli—and elevates them into a luxurious, flavorful meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying. At the heart of this dish lies Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese, a soft, creamy cheese known for its velvety texture and aromatic blend of garlic and herbs. Its melt-in-your-mouth consistency makes it an ideal base for quick sauces, and when paired with just-cooked pasta and crisp-tender broccoli, it transforms a simple meal into something truly memorable.
The Story Behind the Dish
While cheese-based pasta dishes have a long history in many cultures—from Italy’s Alfredo to France’s gratins—this dish owes its charm to the innovation of using flavored cheese as a shortcut to flavor and richness. Boursin cheese, originally developed in Normandy, France in the 1950s, has become a beloved staple in many kitchens worldwide for its balance of richness, herbs, and subtle tang. In this recipe, Boursin doesn’t just add creaminess—it brings a burst of personality, merging convenience with gourmet flair. The addition of broccoli not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a healthful boost of fiber, vitamins, and crunch.
Health and Nutritional Benefits
Despite its indulgent texture, this dish can be a smart addition to a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Broccoli is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, making it an excellent choice to accompany pasta. Its antioxidant properties help reduce inflammation and support immune health. Pairing it with a protein-fortified or whole grain pasta can boost the dish’s overall nutrient profile. Boursin cheese, although rich, is used in a portion-controlled manner to flavor the entire dish, meaning a little goes a long way. Additionally, the recipe can easily be modified to be lower in sodium, gluten-free, or even higher in protein depending on the type of pasta used.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This is not just another cheese pasta recipe. Here’s why it’s one of the best go-to dishes for busy weeknights or casual gatherings:
- Speed: It’s ready in under 30 minutes, including prep and cook time.
- One-Pan Convenience: It requires minimal cookware and cleanup.
- Flavor-Packed: Thanks to the Boursin cheese, you don’t need a long list of ingredients or seasoning to get a bold, delicious result.
- Adaptability: This recipe is versatile. You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra flair. Want it vegan? Swap in a plant-based garlic herb cheese.
- Family-Friendly: It appeals to both adults and kids, making it a hit for all ages.
Who Will Love This Dish?
This recipe is ideal for:
- Busy professionals who need something quick yet gourmet.
- Parents looking for ways to sneak more veggies into dinner.
- Vegetarians seeking hearty meatless options.
- Cheese lovers who adore creamy, garlic-forward flavors.
- Entertainers who want an easy, elegant dish to serve to guests without hours in the kitchen.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Creamy Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli is best enjoyed hot, straight from the stove. You can top it with freshly cracked black pepper, grated Parmesan, or lemon zest for a bright finishing touch. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with garlic bread or a light green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully, cutting through the creaminess with crisp acidity.
Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
- Don’t overcook the broccoli: It should remain vibrant green and slightly crisp to offer a textural contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Reserve the pasta water: This is the key to achieving that luscious, restaurant-style sauce that clings to each noodle.
- Use short pasta: Penne, fusilli, or shells work best as they hold onto the creamy sauce and create a better bite.
- Add flavor layers: A sprinkle of chili flakes, roasted garlic, or sautéed mushrooms can take this dish to the next level without complicating the process.
Creative Variations
- Lemon zest and spinach version: Add baby spinach at the end and top with lemon zest for a fresh twist.
- Boursin Alfredo fusion: Use fettuccine and add a splash of cream for a more decadent version.
- Roasted veggie pasta: Toss in roasted zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or red bell peppers for more veggie goodness.
- Low-carb option: Swap traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini or chickpea-based pasta.
Conclusion
Creamy Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli is more than just a quick-fix dinner—it’s a flavorful experience that’s perfect for home cooks seeking simplicity without sacrificing taste. With its harmonious balance of creamy cheese, aromatic herbs, and nutritious broccoli, this dish checks all the boxes for comfort, nutrition, and ease. Whether you’re making it for your family, impressing guests, or just treating yourself, it’s a recipe that delivers every time. Once you try it, it just might become a weekly favorite.