Looking for a rich, indulgent, and comforting pasta dish that’s full of flavor? Look no further than this Creamy Tomato Boursin Pasta recipe. It’s a grown-up twist on classic tomato cream pasta, elevated with the creamy, garlicky goodness of Boursin cheese. The dish combines velvety tomato sauce with the unique herby flavor of Boursin, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s incredibly simple to make and sure to become your go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
What is Creamy Tomato Boursin Pasta?
Creamy Tomato Boursin Pasta is a delicious and simple pasta dish that features a creamy tomato sauce enriched with Boursin cheese. The Boursin cheese, typically known for its creamy texture and rich garlic-herb flavor, blends seamlessly into the tomato sauce, giving the pasta a velvety texture and an elevated taste. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves a rich and flavorful tomato pasta but wants something a little more sophisticated than the usual.
Origin of Creamy Tomato Boursin Pasta
While this particular dish may not have a traditional, centuries-old origin, the Boursin cheese brings a French influence to the recipe. Boursin is a soft, creamy cheese invented by French cheese maker François Boursin in 1957. This cheese became widely popular due to its herby flavor and smooth texture, making it an ideal addition to various dishes, especially creamy pasta sauces. The tomato pasta element is a universally beloved comfort food, and this dish combines the best of both worlds for a modern, easy-to-make recipe that’s full of flavor.
Ingredients
To make Creamy Tomato Boursin Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work great)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot (or ½ small onion), finely diced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed or diced tomatoes (or 1 ½ cups tomato passata)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor recommended)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add your pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to save ½ cup of pasta water before draining, as this starchy water will help bring the sauce together later. Once the pasta is done, drain and set aside.
2. Make the Tomato Base
While your pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Then, stir in the crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata), along with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Melt in the Boursin
Reduce the heat to low and crumble the Boursin cheese into the sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese has completely melted and is well incorporated into the tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add in the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. For an extra creamy texture, stir in heavy cream at this stage, making the sauce even richer and more indulgent.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated with the rich, velvety sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add more reserved pasta water until you reach the perfect creamy consistency.
5. Serve
Once the pasta is thoroughly coated in the creamy tomato sauce, plate it up and garnish with freshly chopped basil. For extra flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, or drizzle with a little olive oil. If you like a bit of heat, you can also add a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Variations
While this recipe is perfect on its own, you can always mix things up to suit your taste or dietary preferences:
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or Italian sausage to the pasta.
- Make it veggie-loaded: Add spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for a veggie-packed version of this creamy tomato pasta.
- Baked version: For an indulgent twist, transfer the pasta and sauce to an oven-safe dish, top with mozzarella, and broil until bubbly and golden brown.
FAQs About Creamy Tomato Boursin Pasta
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Boursin?
A: While Boursin cheese gives the dish its signature creamy and herby flavor, you can substitute with other soft, creamy cheeses like cream cheese, goat cheese, or ricotta. However, the flavor profile will differ.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat and add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the Boursin cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use a non-dairy cream like coconut or oat cream. Make sure to also use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative if desired.
Conclusion: Creamy Tomato Boursin Pasta
This Creamy Tomato Boursin Pasta is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the rich creaminess of Boursin cheese with the bold flavor of a tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress. With a few simple ingredients and an easy step-by-step preparation method, you can enjoy a comforting and indulgent pasta dish that’s packed with flavor. Whether you stick to the original recipe or get creative with variations, this pasta is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
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