Creamy Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta, and when you add rich, herby Boursin cheese into the mix, it takes everything to another level. This Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli is the perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition, combining velvety smooth sauce with tender-crisp broccoli for a dish that feels both cozy and fresh.

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make yet tastes like something from a fancy restaurant. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a creamy, garlicky, and cheesy pasta that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even special occasions. Whether you’re a cheese lover or just looking for a new way to enjoy pasta, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Incredibly Creamy: Boursin cheese melts into a luxurious, silky sauce.
• Balanced & Nutritious: Broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and a fresh crunch.
• One-Pan Friendly: Less cleanup and more convenience.
• Customizable: Add protein like chicken or shrimp, or swap veggies as needed.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?

You can use almost any pasta shape for this Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli, but some types work better than others. Short pasta like penne, rotini, fusilli, or rigatoni holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If you prefer long pasta, fettuccine or linguine will work well too, but be sure to toss it thoroughly to coat each strand with that delicious Boursin sauce. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are also great options if you have dietary preferences.

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Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are some easy swaps and additions to suit your taste or dietary needs:

• Cheese Alternative: If you don’t have Boursin, you can use cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs for a similar effect. Goat cheese or mascarpone can also work.
• Vegetable Swap: Not a fan of broccoli? Try spinach, asparagus, peas, or mushrooms instead.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra heartiness.
• Pasta Variations: Swap regular pasta for chickpea, lentil, or whole wheat options for a healthier twist.
• Lactose-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based milk alternative.

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Ingredients for This Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli

To make this creamy and flavorful dish, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
• 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 5 oz Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor works best)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (to adjust sauce consistency)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup cooked chicken or shrimp (for added protein)
• 1 tsp lemon zest (for a fresh, citrusy touch)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. This allows them to cook until tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp.

Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water—this will help create a smooth sauce later. Drain the pasta and broccoli, then set aside.

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Step 2: Make the Creamy Boursin Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Lower the heat and stir in the Boursin cheese, allowing it to melt. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk everything together until smooth.

Gradually add some of the reserved pasta water (a few tablespoons at a time) to loosen the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

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Step 3: Combine Everything

Return the cooked pasta and broccoli to the pot with the sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and broccoli are well coated. If needed, add a little more pasta water to keep the sauce silky.

Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Stir well and let it cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld.

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Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the pot from the heat and give the pasta a final taste test. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and a little lemon zest if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

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Notes

• Boursin cheese melts best at low heat. Avoid overheating it, as high temperatures can cause the sauce to separate.
• Pasta water is your secret weapon. It helps loosen the sauce and adds a nice silky texture. Start with a little and add more as needed.
• For extra richness, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a combination of milk and a little extra butter.
• Want a lighter version? Use milk instead of cream, and opt for a whole wheat or protein-based pasta.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Skipping the Pasta Water

Don’t forget to reserve pasta water before draining! It’s key for achieving a smooth, creamy sauce.

2. Overcooking the Broccoli

Adding broccoli too early can make it mushy. Two minutes in boiling water is enough to keep it tender but firm.

3. Letting the Sauce Get Too Thick

If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add a bit more pasta water or a splash of milk to thin it out.

4. Not Stirring the Cheese Properly

Boursin cheese needs to be stirred well so it melts evenly into the sauce. Whisking gently will help avoid clumps.

5. Overheating the Sauce

Cream-based sauces should be cooked on low to medium heat to prevent separation. Keep the heat low for a smooth consistency.

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What to Serve With Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli

This creamy pasta is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can make it even better. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread

A warm, crispy slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

2. Side Salad

A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta.

3. Grilled Chicken

For extra protein, serve the pasta alongside grilled or roasted chicken breast.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus add color and nutrients to the meal.

5. Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms complement the creamy Boursin sauce beautifully.

6. Crispy Bacon or Pancetta

A sprinkle of crispy bacon or pancetta adds a salty crunch.

7. White Wine

A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the creamy and garlicky flavors.

8. Lemon Wedges

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and cuts through the richness.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the sauce thickens as it sits, you may need to loosen it up when reheating.

Freezing

While pasta with a creamy sauce doesn’t freeze as well as tomato-based dishes, you can freeze it. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent graininess when reheating, stir in a little cream or milk while warming it up.

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Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore the creamy consistency. Stir continuously to prevent sticking.
• Microwave: Heat in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between, and add a little milk if needed to keep it from drying out.
• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

This is an approximation and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 500mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Boursin?

Yes! If you don’t have Boursin, you can use cream cheese with garlic and herbs, goat cheese, or even ricotta for a similar creamy texture.

2. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Make sure to reserve pasta water and add it gradually to loosen the sauce. You can also stir in a splash of milk or cream when reheating.

3. Can I make this pasta gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap regular pasta for a gluten-free variety. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free.

4. What protein pairs well with this dish?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon are great additions to make this dish heartier.

5. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! Just add frozen broccoli directly to the boiling pasta water in the last 2 minutes of cooking.

6. Will the sauce separate when reheated?

Cream-based sauces can thicken when cooled, but stirring in a bit of milk or pasta water while reheating will help restore the creamy texture.

7. Can I add more vegetables to this pasta?

Definitely! Mushrooms, spinach, asparagus, or roasted bell peppers would all be delicious additions.

8. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy, cheesy sauce is mild and appealing to kids. If they’re not fans of broccoli, you can swap it for peas or another veggie they enjoy.

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Conclusion

Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli is the perfect balance of creamy, garlicky, and comforting flavors with a touch of freshness from the broccoli. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or serving it to guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Plus, with so many customization options, you can tweak it to suit your preferences. Try it out, and let me know how you like it!

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