There’s something about a meal that comes together in one pot that feels like a tiny victory, especially after a day that’s been all over the place. This one pot pasta with Boursin cheese is exactly that kind of win. You start the evening tired, maybe distracted by a few emails you forgot to send or the laundry that’s still waiting. You toss onion and garlic into your pot, and suddenly the kitchen smells like a cozy escape. The bubbling pasta cooking alongside broth and water is oddly comforting. Somewhere between stirring and setting the table, you realize you didn’t have to spend forever fussing, but you still made something that feels like a hug on a plate.
When the creamy Boursin melts into the pasta, mingling with fresh herbs and bursts of cherry tomatoes, it’s a simple moment of joy that’s hard to beat. I usually let the last bit of sauce coat the spoon while I’m waiting for the first bite — not because I’m impatient, but because it just tastes that good. Plus, it’s one of those meals that feels fancy without trying too hard, perfect for a weeknight when you want to relax rather than rush.
- Comes together in one pot, so fewer dishes and less cleanup — although you might want a big bowl for seconds.
- Rich and creamy from Boursin cheese, but still bright with fresh herbs and juicy cherry tomatoes.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No need for a dozen ingredients or complicated steps.
- Comforting enough to feel like a treat, yet quick enough for busy nights when you just want to eat and unwind.
If you’re worried about the cheese melting evenly or the pasta sticking, it’s usually pretty forgiving as long as you keep an eye on the simmer and stir occasionally. It’s not a meal that demands perfection, which is a relief when you’re juggling everything else.
Print
One Pot Pasta with Boursin Cheese
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A creamy and flavorful one pot pasta dish made with Boursin cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs. Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
12 ounces dried penne pasta
4 cups water
1 cup low sodium chicken broth
4 ounces Boursin garlic and herb cheese, softened
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves, chopped
Instructions
In a large deep skillet or wide pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add the dried penne pasta, water, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce 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 gently until the cheese is melted and the tomatoes are warmed through.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, and parsley.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Kitchen Notes: I usually use a wide, deep skillet or a heavy-bottomed pot for this recipe, but honestly, any large pan that can hold the liquid and pasta works. It’s nice to serve with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. Sometimes I throw in a handful of spinach or swap out cherry tomatoes for sun-dried ones, but I haven’t tested how that changes the cooking time exactly — so just keep an eye on it. If you want to make it a bit heartier, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a few cooked sausage slices can work well, but this pasta stands strong on its own.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese? You might, but Boursin gives this dish its signature creamy, herby flavor. Substitutes won’t be quite the same, but cream cheese mixed with herbs could come close.
What if I don’t have chicken broth? Water works fine, but broth adds more depth. You can also use vegetable broth if you prefer.
How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Give this one pot pasta a try next time you want something comforting without a fuss. It’s an easy way to make dinner feel a little special, even on the busiest nights.