Sometimes, after a long day, the last thing you want is a complicated dinner. This one pot pasta with Boursin cheese hits that sweet spot where comfort meets convenience. It’s creamy and flavorful, with garlic and fresh herbs adding a bright touch. Plus, everything cooks in one pot, so you’re not staring at a pile of dishes afterward. I remember the first time I made it—I was halfway through chopping the onion when my phone buzzed, pulling me away just long enough to forget what I was doing. When I returned, the kitchen smelled amazing, and the pasta was already almost done. That tiny distraction made the whole experience feel more relaxed, less like a chore.
What I love about this dish is how it balances richness and freshness. The Boursin cheese melts into a silky sauce, coating the penne with subtle herbs and garlic flavors. Cherry tomatoes burst with juiciness, while fresh basil adds a fragrant finish. It’s the kind of meal you can sit down to with minimal fuss and feel instantly satisfied.
- Minimal cleanup: one pot, one spoon, and you’re done.
- Quick prep and cook time make it a go-to for busy evenings.
- The creamy sauce is indulgent but not overpowering.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point.
- Fresh herbs and tomatoes keep it from feeling heavy.
If you’re worried about the sauce thickening too much or sticking, I usually keep a little extra broth nearby to loosen it up just in case. It’s not a perfect science, and honestly, sometimes I just wing it and it turns out great anyway.
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One Pot Pasta with Boursin Cheese
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
A creamy, flavorful one pot pasta dish made with Boursin cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
12 ounces penne pasta
4 cups water
1 cup low sodium chicken broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4 ounces Boursin garlic and herb cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
In a large deep skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Add the penne pasta, water, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered.
Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and Boursin cheese to the pot. Stir well until the cheese is fully melted and the tomatoes are warmed through.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil or Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
For equipment, a large deep skillet or pot is all you need—nothing fancy. Serving it with a crisp side salad or some crusty bread turns it into a satisfying meal without extra effort. If you want to switch things up, I’ve tried swapping penne for rigatoni or adding a handful of spinach toward the end. Sometimes I toss in a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick, but that’s a personal gamble since not everyone in my house likes it spicy. Also, using different fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can change the flavor profile subtly but pleasantly.
FAQ
Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, just swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
How long does it keep? Leftovers last about three days in the fridge.
Can I freeze it? It’s best fresh, but you can freeze leftovers with some loss of texture.
What if I don’t have Boursin cheese? Cream cheese with herbs can work in a pinch, but it won’t be quite the same.
Give this one pot pasta a try next time you want something cozy and fuss-free. It’s an easy way to bring a little warmth and flavor to your dinner table without the cleanup hassle.