This creamy Boursin cheese rigatoni is a dreamy pasta dish packed with rich and flavorful cheese. It’s so simple to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights!
Trust me, your taste buds will be doing a happy dance! I love pairing this with a fresh salad for a nice touch. Just don’t forget to save some cheese for topping! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni Pasta: This hollow, tube-shaped pasta is perfect for holding the sauce nicely. You can also use penne or fusilli if you prefer. These shapes will still work well!
Ground Italian Sausage: Go for either mild or spicy sausage depending on your taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be good substitutes. You can also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
Boursin Cheese: The Garlic & Herb flavor adds a wonderful creaminess and depth. If you can’t find Boursin, any herbed cream cheese or goat cheese mixed with garlic powder will work as a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice salty kick. Pecorino Romano is a good alternative if you’d like a sharper flavor. Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor without dairy for a vegan option.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta just the right way can make all the difference! Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Always salt the water generously before boiling. This helps flavor the pasta.
- Stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks to prevent it from sticking together.
- Check for doneness a minute before the package suggests. You want it cooked until it’s just tender (al dente) but not mushy!
- Reserve a cup of pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can help thicken your sauce.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked rigatoni every time!
Boursin Cheese Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 jar (about 14 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin Garlic & Herb cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Boursin Cheese Rigatoni takes about 25 minutes in total—10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, simple, and oh-so-tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. 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—this usually takes about 9-11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until it’s fragrant and just starting to brown.
3. Cook the Sausage:
Add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it.
4. Combine with Marinara:
Stir in the jar of marinara or pasta sauce. Allow it to come to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes so that the flavors meld together nicely.
5. Add the Boursin Cheese:
Lower the heat, then add the Boursin cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Finish the Sauce:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Toss in the Pasta:
Gently toss the drained rigatoni pasta into the skillet, making sure every piece is generously coated with the creamy sauce.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the pasta warm, garnishing each serving with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your creamy and flavorful Boursin Cheese Rigatoni!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding the sauce, you can switch it up with penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.
What If I Can’t Find Boursin Cheese?
No worries! If Boursin isn’t available, you can substitute it with any herbed cream cheese or goat cheese. Just mix in some garlic powder and chopped herbs to replicate that garlic and herb flavor.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can replace the ground Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a hearty vegetarian option. Adjust the seasonings to taste!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or milk if the sauce has thickened.
