Baked Lemon Boursin Pasta is a creamy, tangy pasta dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With the rich creaminess of Boursin cheese, a hint of lemon, and roasted cherry tomatoes, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent. Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (garlic and herb flavor)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Tomatoes: In a baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat the tomatoes evenly.
- Add Boursin Cheese: Place the Boursin cheese in the center of the baking dish, surrounded by the seasoned tomatoes.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and the cheese is soft and melty.
- Cook the Pasta: While the tomatoes and cheese are baking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Combine Everything: Remove the baking dish from the oven and use a spoon to mix the melted Boursin cheese with the roasted tomatoes, creating a creamy sauce. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and cooked pasta to the dish, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Pasta Choice: Use any short pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as penne, fusilli, or rigatoni.
- Lemon Flavor: Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste. Start with half a lemon and add more if you prefer a brighter flavor.
- Pasta Water: Adding reserved pasta water helps to loosen the sauce and makes it cling better to the pasta.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini during the last 10 minutes of baking for extra nutrients.
- Protein Option: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon to make the dish more filling.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread or breadsticks for a complete meal.
- Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the pasta.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs wonderfully with the tangy lemon and creamy cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. When ready to serve, bake until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
If you don’t have Boursin cheese, you can use a combination of cream cheese and garlic and herb seasoning for a similar flavor.
How Do I Prevent the Sauce from Becoming Too Thick?
Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce as needed. The starchy water helps maintain the creamy texture without diluting the flavor.
Can I Use Roasted Garlic Boursin?
Absolutely! Roasted garlic Boursin will add an extra depth of flavor to the dish.
Baked Lemon Boursin Pasta is a creamy, tangy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of roasted cherry tomatoes, creamy Boursin cheese, and a hint of lemon makes it a deliciously comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. Gather your ingredients and enjoy the rich flavors of this baked pasta today!
Happy Cooking!
