This creamy Boursin cheese rigatoni is a cozy dish that’s perfect for any day. The cheese melts beautifully into the pasta, making each bite rich and delicious!
You know it’s a hit when the aroma fills the kitchen, and your family starts gathering around the table. I love adding a sprinkle of herbs on top for a pop of color and flavor. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni Pasta: This pasta shape is perfect for capturing that creamy sauce. However, you can use other pasta types like penne or fusilli if rigatoni isn’t available.
Boursin Cheese: This garlic & herb cheese adds a lot of flavor. If you can’t find it, a blend of cream cheese with garlic powder and herbs can work in a pinch.
Ricotta or Cottage Cheese: This option boosts creaminess. If dairy is a concern, try blending silken tofu for a vegan alternative or skip it entirely.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade sauce is even better! You can substitute with Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or thyme add brightness. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried versions work too, just use a little less since they are more concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure the Cheese Blends Perfectly?
Getting that creamy consistency is a key step in this dish. Here’s how to ensure the cheese blends smoothly.
- Start with room temperature Boursin cheese; it mixes easier with warm ingredients.
- Combine the cheeses off the heat to prevent them from separating and becoming grainy.
- Stir gently until just combined, ensuring you keep the creamy texture without over-mixing.
Using the right techniques helps ensure you get that smooth, cheesy goodness that everyone loves in a baked pasta dish!
How to Make Boursin Cheese Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Cheeses:
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup Boursin cheese (garlic & herb flavor recommended)
- 1/2 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other Ingredients:
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake. In about an hour, you’ll have a delicious, creamy pasta meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for the pasta when you’re done mixing.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta once it’s cooked and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Mix in the Sauce:
Add the marinara sauce and the dried Italian seasoning or oregano to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Incorporate the Cheeses:
Remove the skillet from heat. Now, add the Boursin cheese and the ricotta if you’re using it. Stir until everything is melted, creamy, and well combined.
6. Combine with Pasta:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni with your creamy sauce mixture. Season it with a bit of salt and pepper to your liking, mixing everything well.
7. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it set a little. Finally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up your creamy, cheesy Boursin Cheese Rigatoni and enjoy this delightful meal!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Boursin cheese on hand, a mixture of cream cheese with garlic powder, herbs, and a splash of lemon juice can create a similar flavor. Additionally, you can use any soft cheese you enjoy!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian since it contains no meat. Just ensure that the marinara sauce is plant-based, and you’re good to go! If you’d like to add some veggies, consider tossing in sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at a low temperature or use the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This dish is versatile. You can incorporate vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini either by sautéing them with the garlic or mixing them in with the pasta and sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
