This creamy Boursin cheese rigatoni is a dream come true for cheese lovers! With the rich flavors of garlic and herbs, it coats each piece of pasta perfectly.
Honestly, this dish is so easy to whip up that I often make it on busy weeknights. Pair it with a salad, and dinner is sorted—cheesy goodness in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni Pasta: Rigatoni is perfect for holding on to sauces thanks to its ridges. If you can’t find it, penne or ziti work well too. They have a similar shape and texture!
Boursin Cheese: Boursin adds a creamy, herby flavor, but if you’re looking for a substitute, try cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs or even a soft goat cheese for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives the sauce its richness. If you’re watching calories, you can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream like coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice depth of flavor. You can swap it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How Do You Make a Creamy Sauce Without Clumps?
To get that deliciously creamy sauce without any clumps is a key step in this recipe. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure to lower the heat when adding heavy cream, as high heat can cause the cream to separate.
- Stir continuously while adding Boursin cheese so it melts smoothly into the cream.
- Take your time! Allow the cheese to melt completely before adding more ingredients, ensuring a silky sauce.
How to Make Boursin Cheese Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Dairy:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup Boursin cheese (garlic & herb flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking Essentials:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Boursin Cheese Rigatoni takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 20 minutes making the sauce and combining everything. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rigatoni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 9-11 minutes. When it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. You want it to be fragrant but not browned—watch it closely!
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, reduce the heat to low and carefully pour in the heavy cream. Stir frequently to keep it from burning. After a minute, add the Boursin cheese to the skillet. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely, creating a lovely smooth sauce.
4. Add Parmesan and Season:
Now, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it melts and gives the sauce a nice, creamy texture. Season with crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), salt, and black pepper to taste.
5. Combine Rigatoni & Sauce:
Take your cooked rigatoni and add it to the creamy sauce in the skillet. Gently toss the pasta to coat it evenly with the sauce. Let it simmer on low heat for another 1-2 minutes to warm everything together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Scoop the creamy Boursin Cheese Rigatoni into serving bowls. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your delightful meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni works beautifully, you can substitute it with penne or ziti. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, replace Boursin cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese mixed with herbs, and use a plant-based cream such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast can also be used for flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help revive the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. Just sauté them along with the garlic in the first step to infuse their flavors into the sauce.
