Name: Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli: Creamy 20-Minute Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Malfadine Pasta (substitute with any pasta of choice); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (can be swapped with butter); 1 medium Onion (use shallots for a delicate taste); 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (omit for a milder dish); 2 tablespoons Salted Butter (unsalted butter or margarine works well); 5 ounces Boursin Garlic & Herb Cheese (try different flavors for variety); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (lime juice can be an alternative); to taste Kosher Salt (adjust to suit your palate); to taste Pepper (essential for seasoning); 2 cups Shaved Broccoli (can be substituted with kale or spinach)

There’s something magical about a creamy pasta dish that delivers comfort and satisfaction, especially after a long day. My 20-Minute Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli brings that joy to your table without the fuss, transforming simple ingredients into an indulgent meal. This quick recipe captures the allure of fettuccine Alfredo while incorporating the freshness of broccoli, making it a perfect weeknight treat. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it’s also a fantastic way to elevate your vegetarian dinner game. Imagine savoring a rich, velvety sauce that clings to each strand of pasta, inviting you to take just one more bite. Are you ready to whisk up this delightful dish and impress everyone at your dinner table?

Why is This Pasta a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a creamy dish that feels extravagant yet simple, perfect for a busy weeknight.

Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of Boursin cheese and sautéed broccoli creates a robust, velvety sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever pasta you have on hand or swap out the broccoli for spinach or asparagus to mix things up!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is not just for vegetarians. The indulgent taste is sure to satisfy even the most devout meat lovers. Serve it alongside Mediterranean chicken meatballs for a complete meal that impresses.

Nutrient Boost: With fresh vegetables integrated into the creamy richness, you can indulge without guilt, making it a balanced option for any dinner table.

Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli Ingredients

• Quickly gather everything you need for a creamy and delightful dinner!

For the Pasta

Malfadine Pasta – A unique shape that holds the sauce beautifully; feel free to substitute with any pasta of choice.

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté ingredients; can be swapped with butter for a different flavor.
Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; use shallots for a more delicate taste.
Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a hint of heat; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
Salted Butter – Enriches the sauce; unsalted butter or margarine works just as well.
Boursin Garlic & Herb Cheese – The star of this dish, providing a creamy texture and vibrant flavor—try different flavors if you want to mix things up!
Lemon Juice – Brightens the overall taste; lime juice is a fine alternative.
Kosher Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning, adjust to suit your palate.

For the Veggies

Shaved Broccoli – Adds nutrients and a great texture; can easily be swapped with kale, spinach, or asparagus for variety.

This Boursin cheese pasta with broccoli is sure to become a family favorite, filling your table with warmth and comfort in just 20 minutes!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli

Step 1: Boil the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add malfadine pasta, cooking according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. As the pasta cooks, reserve one cup of the starchy pasta water; this will help create a creamy sauce later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and diced onion to the pan, seasoning with a pinch of salt and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until the onions are translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 3: Add the Broccoli
Add the shaved broccoli to the skillet with the sautéed onions. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt, and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes. The broccoli should become tender yet still vibrant and slightly crisp, adding both color and nutrients to your Boursin cheese pasta.

Step 4: Create the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in salted butter until melted. Next, add the Boursin cheese along with ¾ cup of the reserved pasta water. Mix thoroughly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy, forming a luscious base for your pasta.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the malfadine pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. Allow it to cook in the sauce over low heat for 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully in your Boursin cheese pasta creation.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon
For a touch of brightness, finish your Boursin cheese pasta by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the top. Stir once more, and sprinkle with additional red pepper flakes if desired, enhancing the dish’s flavor and presentation before serving it hot to family and friends.

What to Serve with Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli

Nothing completes this creamy pasta like a few delightful accompaniments that elevate your meal even further!

Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs: Juicy and herby, these meatballs add a savory punch that beautifully contrasts the creamy pasta, enhancing your dining experience.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy and warm, garlic bread serves as the perfect vessel to soak up every last bit of the luscious sauce.
Simple Arugula Salad: A fresh salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon balances the richness of the pasta, adding a refreshing crunch to your plate.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus brings an earthy flavor and bright color, contributing both texture and nutrients to your meal.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy richness of the Boursin cheese, making each bite more enjoyable.
Chocolate Mousse: To finish off your meal on a sweet note, a rich chocolate mousse offers decadent contrast, delighting your taste buds with every spoonful.

Make Ahead Options

These creamy Boursin cheese pasta with broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onions and shave the broccoli up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Similarly, you can cook the malfadine pasta up to 24 hours ahead; just toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, simply sauté the prepared onions and broccoli, add the cooked pasta, and reheat with a splash of reserved pasta water for a creamy finish. This way, you’ll sip through your busy week with restaurant-quality results in no time!

Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli Variations

Feel free to play around with the ingredients of this dish to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute the malfadine pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties. The flavors will shine through just the same!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the sauce for an aromatic twist that enhances the creamy goodness.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch and extra layer of flavor.
Cream Cheese Twist: Swap Boursin cheese for cream cheese for a different creamy flavor; add herbs to taste!
Protein Packed: Toss in grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a heartier meal that delivers both protein and flavor.
Extra Veggie Burst: Mix in vibrant cherry tomatoes or peas to not only add color but also bright flavors that complement the dish beautifully.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for an added kick to elevate your Boursin cheese pasta.
Lighter Option: Swap out the salted butter for a light buttery spread or olive oil to reduce calories without sacrificing taste.

No matter which variation you choose, your Boursin cheese pasta with broccoli will always be a deliciously creamy and comforting dish at the end of a long day! For more inspiration, why not try it alongside some Pesto Chicken Pasta or a refreshing Italian Pasta Salad?

Storage Tips for Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of pasta water to restore creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture of the Boursin cheese sauce.

Freezing Precautions: Due to the creamy sauce, avoid freezing if possible as it may separate; best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor.

Expert Tips for Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli

Pasta Perfection: Ensure you cook the malfadine pasta just to al dente; overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its wonderful texture in this Boursin Cheese Pasta.
Flavor Boost: If you love garlic, consider adding minced garlic alongside the onions for an extra layer of flavor that complements the Boursin cheese beautifully.
Reserve Wisely: Always reserve more pasta water than you think you’ll need; it’s a handy tool to adjust your sauce’s consistency in your Boursin Cheese Pasta while reheating.
Veggie Swaps: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap out broccoli for vegetables like asparagus or spinach for a refreshing twist that still maintains the dish’s creamy charm.
Hearty Additions: For a more filling meal, toss in cooked chicken or shrimp to the pasta; they pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce and elevate your dinner to new heights.

Boursin Cheese Pasta with Broccoli Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right broccoli?
Absolutely! When selecting broccoli for your Boursin cheese pasta, look for firm stalks and bright green florets without any yellowing or dark spots. Fresh broccoli should feel crisp and have a vibrant color. If it’s wilting or has dark spots all over, it’s best to pass.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Boursin cheese pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk on the stove to restore its creamy texture.

Can I freeze Boursin cheese pasta?
Absolutely! For freezing, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently, adding a touch of milk or cream to keep it creamy.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce thickens too much, don’t worry! Simply add a little reserved pasta water, milk, or cream while stirring over low heat. This will loosen the sauce back to that creamy, luscious consistency that makes this Boursin cheese pasta so delightful.

Is there a way to make this dish nut-free?
Very! This recipe is naturally nut-free, but always check any packaged ingredients like Boursin cheese to ensure they don’t contain hidden allergens. If you’re serving this to someone with a specific allergy, double-check labels to keep everyone safe.

Can this dish be modified for a vegan diet?
Certainly! To adapt the Boursin cheese pasta for a vegan diet, use a dairy-free cheese alternative and plant-based butter. You can also add some sautéed mushrooms for umami flavor, creating a delicious vegan version of this creamy pasta dish.