This Boursin Cheese Rigatoni is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that’s super easy to make! The rich, herby cheese coats each bite, making it a true comfort food.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni: This pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. If you don’t have rigatoni, you could use penne or ziti as great alternatives. They both have a similar sturdy texture that works well.
Boursin Cheese: A star ingredient, it adds a punch of flavor. If you’re unable to find Boursin, a mix of cream cheese with garlic and herbs could serve as a clever substitute, but remember to add more seasonings to taste!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less rich.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best, but you can use pre-grated Parmesan in a pinch. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient adds a lovely depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works, or you can skip it altogether, though you’d miss that hint of smokiness!
How Do I Get the Creamiest Sauce?
To achieve that dreamy, creamy sauce, it’s crucial to follow a few key steps:
- Start by heating the olive oil gently to avoid burning the garlic. This gives a lovely flavor to the base.
- When adding the heavy cream, stir continuously. This helps prevent it from curdling and ensures an even texture.
- Once the Boursin cheese goes in, lower the heat and stir until fully melted. This helps integrate the flavors without separation.
- Finally, remember to toss your rigatoni in the sauce on low heat. This lets the pasta absorb all that creamy goodness.
Enjoy your creamy pasta creation with fresh parsley for brightness! 🌿
Boursin Cheese Rigatoni Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 (5.2 oz) package Boursin Garlic & Herb cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: crusty bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend meal with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rigatoni:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s ready, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but be careful not to burn it!
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet while stirring constantly. Add the smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer gently for a minute.
4. Add Boursin Cheese:
Reduce the heat and add the Boursin cheese. Stir well to melt and combine it with the cream, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
5. Mix in Parmesan:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes even creamier.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Carefully add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet. Toss it around to coat each piece of pasta thoroughly in the delicious cheese sauce.
7. Let It Rest:
Cook everything together for another 1-2 minutes so that the flavors meld beautifully.
8. Serve It Up:
Enjoy your pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese on top!
9. Optional Side:
If you like, serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up every bit of that creamy goodness.
This Boursin Cheese Rigatoni is sure to be a hit, bringing a wonderfully rich and herby flavor to your table. Enjoy! 🍽️
Can I Use a Different Pasta Shape?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is great for holding the creamy sauce, you can easily substitute it with penne, ziti, or even fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
What Can I Use Instead of Boursin Cheese?
If Boursin isn’t available, you can create a similar flavor by mixing cream cheese with minced garlic, chopped herbs (like parsley and chives), and a bit of salt. Whisk until smooth for a good alternative!
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
To lighten it up, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a low-fat version of cream. You could also reduce the amount of cheese and add more vegetables, like spinach or cherry tomatoes, for extra flavor and nutrition!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce creamy!
