Creamy Rigatoni with Boursin Cheese
Creamy Rigatoni with Boursin Cheese – A Decadent, Flavorful Pasta
Creamy Rigatoni with Boursin Cheese is the ultimate comfort pasta dish for garlic and cheese lovers. With tender rigatoni smothered in a rich, creamy, garlicky Boursin cheese sauce, this recipe is simple enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough for entertaining. The luscious sauce clings perfectly to each rigatoni tube, creating a luxurious bite every time.
If you’re a fan of pairing pasta with flavorful sides, you might also enjoy Mexican Street Corn Soup. This creamy, smoky soup is made with sweet corn, spices, and a hint of cheese, offering a perfect contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta. Together, these two dishes make a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Tips for the Best Creamy Rigatoni with Boursin Cheese
- Use quality cheese: Boursin Garlic & Herb provides the best flavor and creaminess, but other Boursin flavors work well too.
- Pasta shape matters: Rigatoni’s ridges and hollow center hold the sauce perfectly. Penne or farfalle can be used as alternatives.
- Protein options: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for a more substantial dish.
- Vegetable add-ins: Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas add color, freshness, and extra nutrition.
- Adjust consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, gradually stir in reserved pasta water until smooth.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
- Rich & Creamy: The Boursin cheese creates a decadent, garlicky sauce without extra effort.
- Customizable: Add vegetables, proteins, or extra herbs to suit your taste.
- Comfort Food: Cozy, indulgent, and satisfying ideal for any occasion.
- Pairs Well with Sides: Works beautifully with soups like Mexican Street Corn Soup or a simple green salad.
Creamy Rigatoni with Boursin Cheese
Notes
- 12 oz (340 g) rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (5.2 oz / 150 g) Boursin Cheese (Garlic & Herb)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach
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Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. This reserved water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency later. -
Prepare the sauce:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Garlic is key here—it infuses the sauce with depth without overpowering the Boursin’s flavor. -
Add cream and Boursin:
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add the Boursin Cheese and whisk until fully melted and smooth. The sauce should be velvety, clinging perfectly to the rigatoni later. -
Combine pasta and sauce:
Add cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creamy consistency. This ensures every piece of rigatoni is coated. -
Finish with cheese and herbs:
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper. Top with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Optional toppings like extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes can be added for more flavor. -
Serve:
Serve hot, ideally with a side like Mexican Street Corn Soup for a well-rounded, comforting meal. The combination of creamy pasta and sweet, smoky corn soup is both indulgent and balanced.
- Pair this creamy rigatoni with Mexican Street Corn Soup for a flavorful, comforting meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan, parsley, or even toasted breadcrumbs for added texture.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A1: Yes! Prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.
Q2: Can I use a different cheese?
A2: While Boursin Garlic & Herb is ideal, cream cheese with herbs can be substituted in a pinch.
Q3: Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
A3: Absolutely! Simply omit any meat add-ins and stick to vegetables.
Q4: How can I make it spicier?
A4: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.
Q5: Can I freeze this pasta?
A5: It’s best eaten fresh, as the creamy sauce may separate when frozen and reheated.
Conclusion
Creamy Rigatoni with Boursin Cheese is a decadent yet simple pasta dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The tender rigatoni paired with a velvety, garlicky Boursin sauce creates an indulgent flavor that everyone will love. By create a well-rounded, satisfying meal that is both comforting and impressive. Quick to make, fully customizable, and utterly delicious, this pasta recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
