This Boursin cheese pasta with broccoli is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s super easy to make! It mixes fresh broccoli and soft Boursin cheese for a rich flavor.
The best part? It takes just one pot to whip it up, so you can enjoy tasty pasta without a mountain of dishes to clean! I love tossing in some extra cheese on top for that cheesy goodness! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This pasta shape catches the creamy sauce perfectly. If you don’t have rotini, penne or farfalle work well too. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can be used for a healthier option.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds color and nutrients. You can swap it out with other veggies like spinach or peas if you prefer. Frozen broccoli is also a quick alternative; just thaw and drain it before adding.
Boursin Cheese: The Garlic & Herb flavor is my favorite, but any flavor of Boursin you like will work! You could use cream cheese mixed with fresh herbs as a substitute if Boursin isn’t available.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk gives a rich texture. If you’re dairy-free, unsweetened almond or oat milk are good alternatives, though they may slightly change the flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta and Broccoli Are Cooked Just Right?
The key to perfect pasta and broccoli is timing! Cook your rotini according to the package instructions, but for the last 2-3 minutes, add the broccoli. This method helps keep the broccoli bright green and tender without overcooking it.
- Bring salted water to a boil before adding pasta.
- After cooking pasta for a few minutes, add the broccoli and cook together.
- When both are tender, drain them together to save time.
This trick ensures that both ingredients are cooked well and stay colorful on your plate! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Boursin Cheese Pasta With Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
For the Sauce:
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (Garlic & Herb flavor recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Seasonings:
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 15 minutes cooking the pasta and broccoli, and 10 minutes whipping up the creamy sauce and combining everything. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. About 2-3 minutes before the pasta is finished, carefully add the broccoli florets to blanch them. When done, drain both the pasta and broccoli together and set them aside.
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
In the same pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. Creating the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, then pour in the milk and stir to combine. Gradually add the Boursin cheese into the pot, stirring constantly until it melts into a creamy sauce. This should take just a few moments—so smooth and delicious!
4. Mixing in Parmesan and Seasoning:
Once the Boursin cheese is melted, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture is well combined and creamy. Taste your sauce and season it with salt and pepper according to your liking.
5. Combining Everything Together:
Now, add the drained pasta and broccoli back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Toss everything gently until the pasta and broccoli are well coated with the creamy goodness.
6. Serve It Up:
Serve your delightful Boursin cheese pasta immediately in bowls. Don’t forget to garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you want a little kick. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While broccoli is a fantastic choice, you can easily swap it with other vegetables like spinach, peas, or even asparagus. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed to keep your veggies tender but not overcooked.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry to refresh the creamy sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, use a dairy-free cream cheese or cashew cream in place of Boursin. Additionally, substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor instead of Parmesan.
What’s the Best Type of Pasta to Use?
Short pasta shapes, like rotini, penne, or fusilli, are ideal for this recipe as they hold the creamy sauce well. However, you can use any pasta you enjoy, including whole grain or gluten-free options.
