If you’re looking for the perfect weeknight dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and impossibly comforting, this 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Combining the tangy sweetness of marinara sauce with the creamy, herby richness of Boursin cheese, all tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is incredibly effortless to make. Whether you have limited time or limited ingredients, this recipe proves that simple can be sensational in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just three key ingredients, this recipe shows how simplicity can create magic in the kitchen. Each component plays an essential role: the spaghetti offers that comforting base, the marinara brings vibrant tomato flavor and color, while the Boursin cheese melts into a luscious, herby sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
- Spaghetti: Choose a good-quality pasta for the best texture and flavor—it’s the heart of your dish.
- Marinara sauce: A rich, flavorful tomato sauce serves as the perfect tangy backdrop; homemade or store-bought both work wonderfully.
- Boursin Cheese (Garlic and Fine Herbs or Basil and Chive): This creamy, herb-infused cheese melts effortlessly, adding a luscious dimension that transforms the sauce into something truly special.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by boiling your spaghetti in generously salted water according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente texture. The salt not only seasons the pasta but helps enhance the overall flavors once it’s combined with the sauce. Here’s a little trick: don’t drain the pasta right away! You want to reserve some of that starchy pasta water and let a bit cling to your noodles when you transfer them, which helps the sauce stick beautifully.
Step 2: Warm the Marinara Sauce
While the pasta cooks, pour your marinara sauce into a large skillet and warm it over medium heat. This step wakes up the tomatoes and concentrates their deep, sweet flavor. Once the sauce is hot and gently bubbling, it’s time for the star ingredient to make an entrance.
Step 3: Melt in the Boursin Cheese
Drop the Boursin cheese directly into the warm marinara. Using a spoon, break it up and stir steadily as it softens and melts into the sauce, creating a creamy, herbaceous blend that elevates the dish instantly. Lower the heat to a simmer to gently marry those flavors without risking burning the cheese.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Rather than draining your pasta completely, transfer it with a pasta fork or tongs directly into the skillet, allowing excess water to drain first. Toss the noodles in the sauce carefully, ensuring every strand is luxuriously coated. If necessary, add a pinch of salt at the end to balance and brighten the flavors. Serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
This pasta is fabulous on its own, but a scattering of fresh basil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper adds a delightful fresh aroma and visual pop. You might also love a little grated Parmesan on top for some extra richness. These simple garnishes make every bite feel thoughtfully finished.
Side Dishes
Pairing this creamy tomato pasta with a crisp green salad or some garlicky roasted vegetables brings wonderful contrast in texture and flavor. A warm crusty bread or garlic knots are excellent additions for soaking up every last bit of that irresistible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting or want to impress, try serving individual portions in shallow bowls, topped with a fresh herb sprig and a drizzle of good olive oil. You could also toss in some sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken for a heartier meal without losing the simplicity that makes this 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe such a winner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so before reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up and revive that creamy texture.
Freezing
While you can freeze this pasta, keep in mind that the texture of the Boursin sauce may change slightly after thawing. If you do freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to two months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring often. Adding a teaspoon or two of water will help keep the sauce smooth and creamy, just like freshly made. Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully with this sauce, feel free to experiment with penne, fusilli, or even fresh pasta for a different twist. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is there a substitute for Boursin cheese?
If you can’t find Boursin, a soft cream cheese mixed with fresh herbs and garlic can be a decent stand-in. However, Boursin’s unique flavor and creamy texture truly elevate this recipe, so try to use it if possible.
Can this recipe be made vegan or dairy-free?
This particular recipe relies on Boursin cheese for its creamy texture and flavor, which is dairy-based. For a vegan version, you could try a plant-based herb cream cheese alternative, though the flavor profile will differ.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
From start to finish, you can have this delicious meal on the table in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights or last-minute dinners.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy chickpeas are excellent additions to make this pasta more filling. Just toss them in at the end when combining the pasta and sauce.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend trying the 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe enough. It’s one of those rare meals that feels indulgent but requires hardly any effort or ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish brings warmth, comfort, and joy to the table with every bite. So next time you want something simple yet special, give it a whirl—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This simple and delicious 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Combining spaghetti, marinara sauce, and creamy Boursin cheese, it creates a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that can be served as a satisfying entree or side in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) package spaghetti
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (5.2-ounce) package Boursin Cheese (Garlic and Fine Herbs or Basil and Chive flavor)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the spaghetti according to the package instructions in salted boiling water. Be sure not to drain the pasta after cooking.
- Heat the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, pour the marinara sauce into a large skillet and heat it over medium heat until warm.
- Add Boursin Cheese: Add the Boursin cheese to the warm marinara sauce and use a spoon to break it up. Reduce the heat to a simmer and stir continuously until the cheese has fully melted into the sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: When the pasta is al dente, use a pasta fork or tongs to transfer it directly from the pot to the skillet with the sauce. Allow any excess water to drain before mixing.
- Toss and Serve: Toss the pasta thoroughly to coat it evenly with the creamy tomato sauce. Add additional salt if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or main entree.
Notes
- You can reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Boursin cheese flavors can be substituted according to preference.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for garnish and extra freshness.
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp.
