This Boursin Cheese Rigatoni is a creamy, dreamy pasta dish that comes together in no time. The rich Boursin cheese melts beautifully, coating each piece of rigatoni.
You’ll love how easy this is! Just cook the pasta, mix in the cheesy goodness, and voilà! Perfect for a cozy dinner—or a sneaky late-night snack! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni: This tubular pasta is great for holding sauce, but you could swap it for penne or fusilli if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed!
Boursin Cheese: This garlic and herb cheese gives a creamy texture and flavor. If you can’t find it, a soft cheese like herb cream cheese or even goat cheese can work nicely.
Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess. You could use cottage cheese for a lighter option or skip it if you want a simpler dish. Just remember to adjust the overall cheese quantity!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They bring a sweet-tart punch. You can use cherry tomatoes roasted in the oven for a fresh alternative if sun-dried ones are unavailable.
Fresh Spinach: A good way to add greens! Kale or Swiss chard could be used instead, but they may need a longer cooking time to soften.
How Do I Make Sure My Cheese Sauce Is Creamy?
Getting the cheese sauce just right is key. Here’s how to ensure a smooth, creamy blend:
- Heat the skillet gently after adding cheese. High heat can cause it to separate.
- Stir constantly as the cheese melts. This helps it blend into a smooth sauce.
- If your sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
- Mix your cheeses in stages—starting with softer cheeses first will help create that creamy base.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of pasta!
How to Make Boursin Cheese Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 (5.2 oz) package Boursin garlic and herb cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil, sliced (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This delightful dish will take about 30 minutes from start to finish! That includes around 15 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking time. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal anytime.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rigatoni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 9-11 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water just in case!
2. Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Next, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts down.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the Boursin cheese, ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan to the skillet. Stir gently and consistently until all the cheeses melt together into a creamy, luscious sauce. If it gets too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet. Carefully toss the pasta with the sauce to ensure it’s evenly coated. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if you like a bit of spice.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is nicely mixed, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Boursin Cheese Rigatoni on individual plates or in a big serving bowl. Top it off with fresh basil slices and a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Enjoy!
Dig in while it’s hot for a wonderfully creamy and flavorful experience—perfect for any pasta lover!
This Boursin Cheese Rigatoni is a comforting and rich dish that combines the luscious flavors of cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach for a delightful meal.
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While rigatoni works wonderfully, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta shapes may vary slightly!
What Can I Substitute for Boursin Cheese?
If you can’t find Boursin, you can use herb-flavored cream cheese or even goat cheese for a different tangy flavor. Just mix in some extra herbs like thyme or parsley to mimic the taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to help restore creaminess.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the garlic to ensure they cook properly.