Creamy Boursin Pasta (TikTok-Inspired One-Pan Recipe)

Name: Creamy Boursin Pasta (TikTok-Inspired One-Pan Recipe)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 8 ounces short pasta (farfalle, rotini, or fusilli); 1 (5.3-ounce) package Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs); 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes; 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced; Parmesan cheese for garnish

BY Emily Parker June 26, 2025

Creamy boursin pasta with roasted tomatoes and herbs in a white casserole dish

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I first discovered Boursin pasta on a cozy Sunday evening when my pantry was nearly empty, and all I had left were a box of cherry tomatoes, some pasta, and a round of Boursin cheese I’d bought for a dinner party. I popped everything into a casserole dish, hoping for the best and the result was a revelation. The creamy, herb-packed cheese melted into a silky sauce that clung to every piece of pasta, creating a restaurant-worthy meal in under 40 minutes.

That moment turned into a weekly ritual. I’ve since tested and refined this recipe countless times to make sure the sauce is rich but not heavy, the pasta perfectly coated, and the flavors balanced with fresh herbs and roasted tomatoes. What makes this TikTok Boursin pasta trend truly special is how effortlessly it comes together just one pan, minimal prep, and a flavor payoff that feels like a comfort food hug.

Whether you’re making dinner for two or feeding a hungry crowd, this creamy Boursin pasta delivers both convenience and luxury. With a few simple tweaks, you can turn it into a vegetarian favorite or a protein-packed main course. Keep reading for my tested method, flavor variations, and expert tips to make this viral pasta even better than the original.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Boursin Pasta

There’s a reason this boursin pasta recipe went viral on TikTok it’s pure creamy comfort in a bowl. What started as a simple baked cheese trend has evolved into a weeknight staple that’s both elegant and effortless. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation:

1. One-Pan Simplicity

All you need is a baking dish and a pot of boiling water. The oven does the heavy lifting, roasting cherry tomatoes until they burst into sweet, jammy perfection while the Boursin melts into a rich, herby sauce. Toss in your cooked pasta, and dinner is served minimal dishes required.

2. Creamy and Flavor-Packed

Boursin cheese brings instant flavor garlic, herbs, and a velvety texture that makes every bite luxurious. No need for heavy cream or complex seasonings; the cheese does it all. It’s the ultimate shortcut to gourmet taste.

3. Customizable for Every Craving

You can keep it simple with tomatoes and basil, or load it up with extras like roasted red peppers, sautéed spinach, or pan-seared shrimp. For a protein boost, add roasted chicken the creamy sauce complements it beautifully.

4. Quick Enough for Busy Nights

From start to finish, this dish takes about 40 minutes most of it hands-off. It’s ideal for those evenings when you want something indulgent but don’t have the time (or patience) for an elaborate meal.

5. Always Crowd-Pleasing

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this boursin pasta is guaranteed to impress. Its creamy, savory aroma fills the kitchen, and the final dish looks and tastes like something straight out of a restaurant.

What Is Boursin Cheese?

Before diving into the recipe, it helps to understand the star ingredient Boursin cheese. This soft, spreadable cheese was created in Normandy, France, in the early 1960s by François Boursin, a cheesemaker inspired by the country’s love for creamy, herb-seasoned fresh cheese. What makes it special is its light, whipped texture and signature blend of garlic and fine herbs, which melt beautifully into sauces.

A Flavor Profile Made for Pasta

Boursin is naturally rich and tangy, with a savory punch of garlic and subtle notes of parsley and chives. When baked or stirred into hot pasta, it transforms into a velvety sauce no roux or cream required. The result? A silky coating that clings to every bite of pasta, balancing richness with freshness.

Varieties You Can Use

While the classic Garlic & Fine Herbs Boursin is perfect for this recipe, you can also experiment with other flavors:

Shallot & Chive: for a milder, slightly sweet onion flavor.
Black Pepper: adds a peppery bite that enhances roasted tomatoes.
Basil & Chive: ideal for a more Mediterranean twist.
Dairy-Free Boursin: a plant-based version made with almond or coconut milk for vegan eaters.

Substitutions

If you can’t find Boursin, try one of these alternatives:

Herbed cream cheese softer and milder, but still creamy.
Goat cheese with herbs tangier and slightly crumbly, but melts nicely into a sauce.
Mascarpone with garlic and herbs for a richer, smoother texture.

Tip: When substituting, add a pinch of garlic powder and dried herbs (like thyme or oregano) to mimic Boursin’s signature taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This creamy boursin pasta recipe calls for just a handful of simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have on hand. Each one plays an essential role in building a sauce that’s rich, herby, and perfectly balanced.

Main Ingredients

8 ounces pasta – Short shapes like farfalle (bow-tie), fusilli, or rotini work best because their ridges hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
1 (5.3-ounce) package Boursin cheese – I recommend the Garlic & Fine Herbs variety, but any flavor works.
2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes – When roasted, they burst and blend into a naturally sweet tomato sauce.
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion – Adds a subtle sharpness and color contrast. You can substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic deepens the flavor and complements the herbs in the cheese.
3 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the tomatoes roast evenly and adds richness to the sauce.
½ teaspoon dried oregano – For a Mediterranean touch that enhances the herbs in the Boursin.
½ teaspoon kosher salt & ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Essential for balance. Adjust to taste once the sauce is combined.
¼ cup thinly sliced fresh basil – Optional, but it brightens the entire dish and adds a pop of freshness.

Ingredients for boursin pasta including cheese, tomatoes, pasta, and basil

Optional Garnishes

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Extra fresh basil leaves
A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil

Ingredient Swaps and Add-Ins

Protein lovers: Add baked chicken, crispy pancetta, or sautéed shrimp.
Vegetarian option: Toss in roasted zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for more texture and nutrients.
Extra creamy: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cream or a spoonful of mascarpone before mixing in the pasta.

Culinary Tip: Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining it’s liquid gold for adjusting your sauce’s consistency later!

How to Make Boursin Pasta (Step-by-Step)

This boursin pasta comes together in just one pan and a pot of boiling water no fancy equipment needed. The key is to roast the ingredients until the tomatoes burst and the Boursin melts into a creamy, herby sauce that coats every strand of pasta.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, place the unwrapped Boursin cheese right in the center. Surround it with cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and minced garlic.

Step 2: Season Generously

Drizzle olive oil over everything, then sprinkle on oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to gently toss the vegetables so they’re evenly coated in oil and seasoning.

Tip: A light coating of oil helps the tomatoes blister evenly and prevents the garlic from burning.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and bursting and the cheese looks slightly melted and golden around the edges. The aroma will be incredible garlicky, herby, and rich.

Step-by-step process of making boursin pasta with roasted tomatoes and melted cheese

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the cheese mixture bakes, cook your pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water you’ll need it to help loosen the sauce later.

Step 5: Mix It All Together

Once the Boursin and tomatoes are ready, remove the dish from the oven. Using a spoon or spatula, stir the melted cheese and roasted tomatoes together, gently crushing the tomatoes to release their juices. This forms the creamy, herbed sauce base.

Add the cooked pasta directly into the dish and toss until everything is well-coated. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add splashes of pasta water until it reaches a glossy, silky consistency.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Stir in the fresh basil and top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a final touch of saltiness. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Optional Variation – Stovetop Version:
If you prefer not to bake, you can melt the Boursin in a large skillet with a splash of pasta water and olive oil over medium heat, then add sautéed cherry tomatoes and toss with cooked pasta. It’s just as creamy and saves oven time.

Tips for Perfect Boursin Pasta Every Time

After testing this boursin pasta recipe multiple times, I’ve learned that a few simple techniques can turn a good dish into an unforgettable one. Follow these pro tips to make sure your sauce stays creamy, your pasta perfectly coated, and your flavors balanced every time.

1. Don’t Skip the Pasta Water

That reserved pasta water is the secret to a silky, restaurant-quality sauce. The starch in it binds everything together, helping the Boursin cling to the pasta instead of separating. Add a tablespoon at a time until the sauce is glossy and smooth.

2. Choose Pasta with Texture

Short, ridged pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or bow-tie are ideal because they “grab” the sauce better than spaghetti or linguine. This ensures each bite is coated in that creamy, herby goodness.

3. Roast the Tomatoes Thoroughly

You’ll know they’re ready when they start to burst and caramelize slightly. This step deepens their flavor and adds a hint of natural sweetness that balances the richness of the Boursin.

4. Add Basil at the End

Fresh herbs lose their vibrancy when baked too long. Stir in basil just before serving to keep its bright flavor and color intact.

5. Adjust the Seasoning After Mixing

Boursin cheese already contains salt and herbs, so it’s best to taste the sauce after mixing before adding more salt. A small pinch of black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can really enhance the final flavor.

6. For a Creamier Finish

If you prefer an extra-silky texture, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream, mascarpone, or even a knob of butter right before serving. It adds richness without overpowering the herbs.

7. Make It Your Own

Once you’ve mastered the base, customize it with your favorite add-ins grilled chicken, shrimp, spinach, or even roasted mushrooms all work beautifully.

Variations & Add-Ins

One of the best things about boursin pasta is how adaptable it is. Once you’ve nailed the basic creamy sauce, you can easily customize it for different tastes, diets, and occasions. Here are some of my favorite tested variations that keep the dish exciting every time you make it.

1. Boursin Pasta with Chicken

For a protein-packed version, add seasoned chicken breasts directly to the baking dish alongside the Boursin and tomatoes before roasting. Bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), then slice and toss into the finished sauce. It turns this comfort meal into a complete dinner.

2. Spicy Boursin Pasta

If you love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil just before serving. The mild spice contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. You can also try the Black Pepper Boursin variety for a built-in kick.

3. Boursin Pasta with Shrimp

Toss pan-seared shrimp into the sauce right before serving for a light, seafood-inspired twist. The sweetness of shrimp pairs perfectly with the garlicky herbs of Boursin cheese.

4. Veggie-Loaded Boursin Pasta

Add roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients and texture. You can even toss in a handful of baby arugula at the end for a peppery finish.

5. Baked Boursin Pasta Casserole

Want a cozy, baked version? After mixing the pasta and sauce, transfer everything to a greased baking dish, top with Parmesan or mozzarella, and bake for 10 minutes at 375°F until golden and bubbly.

6. Vegan Boursin Pasta

Try the dairy-free Boursin (made from almond or coconut milk) and toss with roasted veggies or lentil pasta for a completely plant-based meal. The creamy texture and herb flavor stay just as delicious.

How to Store and Reheat

This boursin pasta reheats surprisingly well as long as you treat it gently. Because the sauce is made from soft cheese and tomatoes, it’s best to reheat it slowly to maintain its creamy consistency.

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerator: Transfer cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezer: You can freeze boursin pasta, but note that the sauce may slightly separate after thawing. If you do, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating on the Stovetop (Best Method)

Place the pasta in a nonstick skillet.
Add a splash of milk or pasta water (1–2 tablespoons per serving).
Heat over low to medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce becomes creamy again.

Reheating in the Microwave

Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl.
Add a teaspoon of milk or olive oil and cover loosely.
Heat in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each until warmed through.

Culinary Tip: Avoid overheating Boursin cheese can separate if it’s reheated too quickly. Gentle, slow warming keeps the texture smooth and luscious.

Can You Make It Ahead?

Absolutely. You can roast the Boursin, tomatoes, and onions up to a day in advance. When ready to serve, cook fresh pasta, reheat the sauce, and toss everything together for an instant weeknight dinner.

What to Serve With Boursin Pasta

Since boursin pasta is rich, creamy, and herb-forward, it pairs beautifully with crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or lighter side dishes that balance its indulgence. Here are some of my go-to pairings that make this meal feel complete and restaurant-worthy.

1. Fresh and Crunchy Salads

A refreshing salad adds contrast and keeps the meal balanced. Try one of these easy options:

Grinder Pasta Salad Recipe: A zesty, tangy salad that adds a hint of spice to your creamy pasta night.
Mediterranean Pasta Salad: Filled with olives, feta, and fresh veggies it brings a bright, briny touch to the table.
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad: Smoky, creamy, and slightly tangy ideal for a potluck or family-style dinner.
Classic Pasta Salad: A timeless side that pairs perfectly with any creamy pasta dish.

2. Simple Greens and Veggies

Serve your Boursin pasta with a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or grilled asparagus for a light, fresh contrast. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a touch of sweetness that complements the herby sauce.

3. Warm Bread or Garlic Knots

Nothing beats a piece of warm garlic bread, focaccia, or buttered baguette for soaking up the last bit of sauce. Toasted bread also adds crunch to balance the creamy pasta.

4. Wine Pairings

If you’re serving this pasta for a dinner party, pair it with:

Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a light, citrusy pairing.
Pinot Noir for a red option that won’t overpower the herbs.

Expert Tip: Because boursin pasta is both creamy and savory, pair it with sides that are crisp, tangy, or slightly acidic to keep the meal harmonious.

FAQs About Boursin Pasta

1. What is Boursin pasta made of?

Boursin pasta is made with a round of creamy Boursin cheese, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and your favorite pasta. As the cheese melts, it turns into a rich, herby sauce that coats the pasta beautifully all baked together in one pan.

2. What does Boursin cheese taste like?

Boursin has a creamy, buttery texture with a delicate blend of garlic and herbs. It’s similar to herbed cream cheese but lighter and more aromatic. When melted into pasta, it delivers a luxurious, restaurant-style flavor.

3. Can I make Boursin pasta without baking it?

Yes! You can melt the Boursin on the stovetop instead. In a large skillet, combine the cheese, a splash of pasta water, and olive oil over low heat. Stir until creamy, then toss in cooked pasta and roasted or sautéed tomatoes.

4. What protein goes well with Boursin pasta?

This pasta pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta. For a vegetarian option, add roasted mushrooms or sautéed spinach for extra texture and flavor.

5. How can I make my Boursin pasta healthier?

You can lighten it up by using whole-grain or lentil pasta, adding extra vegetables, or swapping half the cheese for low-fat cream cheese. It keeps the dish creamy but cuts down on calories and fat.