If you’re craving something effortlessly delicious, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine perfectly tender spaghetti coated in a rich, creamy sauce made from vibrant marinara and velvety Boursin cheese—the kind of meal that feels both fancy and homey without any hassle at all. It’s simplicity at its best, turning just three ingredients into a dazzling dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Only three ingredients stand between you and a gorgeous plate of pasta, each chosen for its unique role in making this dish shine. The pasta provides the perfect base with satisfying bite and texture. The marinara sauce adds a bright, tomato-rich zing that sings with freshness. And the Boursin cheese brings a creamy, herbaceous depth that turns every forkful into pure bliss.
- Spaghetti (16 ounces): Classic long pasta that holds the sauce beautifully, offering the ideal bite and familiarity for this dish.
- Marinara Sauce (24 ounces): Choose a quality jarred marinara bursting with ripe tomato flavor and herbs for that vibrant, tangy base.
- Boursin Cheese (5.2 ounces): Garlic and Fine Herbs or Basil and Chive flavors are perfect; this creamy, herbed cheese melts smoothly, adding richness and a savory twist.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your spaghetti in a large pot of generously salted water, following the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. The salt in the water is crucial because it seasons the pasta from within, enhancing every bite. Be careful not to overcook; you want it firm yet tender, ready to soak up all that luscious sauce.
Step 2: Warm Up the Marinara Sauce
While your pasta is swimming happily in its pot, pour the marinara sauce into a large skillet over medium heat. Let it warm gently, filling your kitchen with the inviting scent of tomatoes and herbs. This slow warming helps release the sauce’s flavors and preps it to meld beautifully with the cheese.
Step 3: Add and Melt the Boursin Cheese
Once your marinara is warm and bubbling slightly, add the Boursin cheese right into the skillet. Use a spoon to break the cheese into smaller pieces, allowing it to melt evenly and swirl into the sauce. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir continuously until the cheese fully melts, creating a creamy, herby sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Instead of draining your pasta, use a pasta fork or tongs to lift the spaghetti directly from the pot into the skillet. This method allows a little of the pasta water to come along, which helps loosen the sauce for perfectly even coating. Toss everything together so each strand is luxuriously covered. Taste and season with a pinch of salt if needed, then serve immediately, enjoying the harmony of textures and flavors.
How to Serve 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
You can keep this dish simple or dress it up with fresh garnishes that add color and a burst of freshness. Sprinkle some chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a bright green contrast. A drizzle of good olive oil or a few shavings of Parmesan cheese also make lovely finishing touches.
Side Dishes
This 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a warm crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms to round out the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress guests or just elevate your meal, serve the pasta in individual bowls topped with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes for texture and a touch of heat. A vibrant tomato and Boursin pasta salad version chills well too—perfect for a picnic or potluck.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe store wonderfully in the fridge. Transfer any uneaten pasta into an airtight container and consume within 3 to 4 days. The creamy sauce holds its flavor well, making for easy next-day dinners or lunch options.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can slightly affect the texture of both pasta and the cheesy sauce. However, if needed, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, so the sauce stays creamy and the pasta tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully, feel free to experiment with penne, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer. Just keep in mind that the sauce consistency may pair differently depending on the pasta shape.
What if I don’t have Boursin cheese? Is there a substitute?
If Boursin isn’t available, you can substitute with another creamy, herb-infused cheese like cream cheese mixed with fresh herbs or a soft goat cheese. The key is getting that creamy texture combined with savory herb flavors.
Can I add veggies or protein to this dish?
Definitely! This recipe serves as a perfect blank canvas. Toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, grilled chicken, or roasted veggies to bulk it up and add extra nutrients without complicating the cooking process.
How do I make the sauce less thick?
If your sauce feels too thick, simply add a bit of reserved pasta water while tossing the pasta and sauce together. The starchy water helps loosen the sauce, making it silky and perfect for coating.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe is fantastic for meal prepping as it reheats well and requires minimal ingredients and time, giving you tasty lunches or dinners in a snap.
Final Thoughts
This 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta Recipe is proof that amazing meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just three thoughtfully chosen ingredients, you get a luscious, comforting dish that feels like a hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how quickly it can become one of your favorite go-to recipes for any busy evening or when simple pleasure is what you’re after.
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 easy and flavorful 3-Ingredient Tomato and Boursin Pasta recipe combines creamy, herbed Boursin cheese with rich marinara sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti for a quick, comforting meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a delicious pasta dish with minimal ingredients and maximum taste.
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, but do not drain the pasta after cooking.
- Heat the Marinara Sauce: While the pasta cooks, pour the marinara sauce into a large skillet over medium heat. Warm the sauce thoroughly.
- Add the Boursin Cheese: Once the marinara sauce is warm, add the Boursin cheese to the skillet. Use a spoon to break up the cheese, mixing it into the sauce until it melts creating a creamy texture.
- Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently while stirring occasionally, ensuring the cheese fully integrates with the marinara sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: When the pasta is al dente, use a pasta fork or tongs to directly transfer it from the pot to the skillet, allowing any excess water to drain before mixing. Toss the pasta in the creamy tomato sauce until well coated.
- Season and Serve: Taste and add additional salt if needed. Serve the pasta warm either as a main dish or a side.
Notes
- Do not drain the pasta water completely; some pasta water can help loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
- You can use any flavor of Boursin cheese depending on your preference; Garlic and Fine Herbs or Basil and Chive work best.
- For extra protein, consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables.
- If you like a spicier sauce, add red pepper flakes when heating the marinara sauce.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
