If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, comforting, and surprisingly light, our Spaghetti Squash Boursin recipe is a must-try. This dish takes the naturally sweet and tender strands of spaghetti squash and pairs them with the rich, herby goodness of Boursin cheese. It’s the perfect blend of indulgence and wholesome flavor.
What we love most is how effortlessly elegant this recipe feels while being so simple to make. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits just as well at a dinner party as it does on a cozy weeknight. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more veggies without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
To create this irresistibly creamy Spaghetti Squash Boursin dish, we need fresh and flavorful components. Below is a well-organized list for easy reference. Ensure all items are prepped as described to simplify the cooking process:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3 pounds, halved lengthwise and seeds removed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 5 ounces Boursin cheese (we used Garlic & Fine Herbs for optimal flavor)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a subtle kick, optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Useful Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Fork (for spaghetti squash shredding)
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
This ingredient list ensures a rich, creamy, and herb-infused taste in every bite. Setting everything up beforehand allows us to make the cooking effortless and enjoyable.
Tools And Equipment
Creating the perfect Spaghetti Squash Boursin dish requires the right tools to ensure our cooking process is seamless and efficient. Here’s a breakdown of the essential tools and their uses:
Essential Tools
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: For cutting the spaghetti squash in half cleanly and safely. A sharp blade prevents any unnecessary struggle with the tough outer shell.
- Sturdy Cutting Board: A non-slip cutting board will give us stability while cutting the squash, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Spoon: To scoop out the seeds and strings from the center of the squash. A regular spoon works well, but a grapefruit spoon with serrated edges can make this step even easier.
- Baking Sheet: To roast the spaghetti squash to golden perfection. A rimmed baking sheet ensures that all juices stay contained.
- Parchment Paper or Foil: To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Forks (2): To scrape the roasted squash into tender, spaghetti-like strands. Using two forks allows us to work more efficiently.
- Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl is vital to combine the squash strands, creamy Boursin cheese, and other ingredients evenly.
- Whisk or Silicone Spatula: For blending the Boursin cheese and other components into a smooth, velvety sauce.
Optional but Helpful Tools
- Microplane or Garlic Press: If we use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced, a microplane or garlic press offers quick and uniform mincing for bold flavor.
- Oven Thermometer: To ensure our oven stays at the perfect temperature for roasting.
- Microwave-Safe Dish: If we’re short on time, we can soften the spaghetti squash in the microwave before roasting.
- Small Saucepan: To warm the heavy cream gently without risk of burning, ensuring it mixes smoothly with the cheese.
Tools Summary Table
We’ve summarized the most important tools for quick reference:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Cutting squash in half safely |
| Sturdy Cutting Board | Stabilizing while cutting |
| Spoon | Scooping seeds and strings from squash |
| Baking Sheet | Roasting the squash evenly |
| Parchment Paper or Foil | Preventing sticking and ensuring easy cleanup |
| Forks (2) | Scraping squash strands |
| Mixing Bowl | Combining ingredients evenly |
| Whisk or Silicone Spatula | Blending the Boursin sauce |
Directions
Let’s bring this delicious Spaghetti Squash Boursin Recipe together step-by-step. Follow these instructions to create a dish that’s both elegant and comforting.
Prep The Spaghetti Squash
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds using a spoon.
- Drizzle the squash halves with 1 tablespoon olive oil each. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the squash halves cut-side down.
Cook The Spaghetti Squash
- Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
- Use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Transfer the strands into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
| Oven Temperature | Cooking Time | Cooling Time |
|---|---|---|
| 400°F | 35-40 minutes | 10 minutes |
Prepare The Boursin Sauce
- In a small saucepan, heat ½ cup heavy cream over medium-low heat until warm, but not boiling.
- Stir in 1 package (5.2 oz) of Boursin cheese (any flavor of your choice) until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add 1 clove minced garlic and stir for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Combine Squash And Sauce
- Pour the prepared Boursin sauce over the spaghetti squash strands in the mixing bowl.
- Gently toss until the squash is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or enjoy straight from the bowl.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
This recipe’s creamy, cheesy notes from the Boursin sauce combined with naturally sweet strands of roasted spaghetti squash make for an indulgent yet vegetable-packed treat.
Tips For Success
To ensure the Spaghetti Squash Boursin Recipe turns out perfectly creamy, flavorful, and satisfying, here are our top tips. These suggestions will help you troubleshoot common issues and refine your technique for the best results every time.
1. Choosing the Right Spaghetti Squash
- Select a firm, medium-sized squash with bright, even-colored skin. Avoid any squash with bruises or soft spots.
- For the best texture, aim for about 3-4 pounds of squash to yield a good balance of squash-to-sauce ratio.
2. Perfect Squash Roasting
- Roast the squash with the cut side down on the baking sheet. This helps trap steam, softening the flesh for easier shredding.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless.
- Test for doneness by inserting a fork into the skin—it should glide in with no resistance.
3. Making the Creamy Boursin Sauce Extra Smooth
- Low and slow heat is key! When melting the Boursin cheese into the cream, avoid high heat, which might cause the sauce to separate. Stir constantly to maintain a silky-smooth consistency.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of warmed chicken broth or milk in small increments until desired texture is achieved.
4. Combining Squash and Sauce
- When mixing, add the squash strands gradually. This ensures the sauce coats the strands evenly and prevents clumps.
- Toss gently with a pair of tongs to avoid breaking the delicate strands.
Table: Recommended Ingredient Temperature
To achieve the best results, start with these ingredients at the right temperature:
| Ingredient | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Boursin Cheese | Room temperature (soft) |
| Heavy Cream | Slightly warm |
| Spaghetti Squash | Warm (freshly roasted) |
5. Garnishing Like a Pro
- Elevate the dish by adding freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives.
- For a delightful crunch, consider topping with a few toasted pine nuts or crushed walnuts.
6. Storing and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent the sauce from drying out. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When reheating, use low heat and stir in a small amount of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
7. Troubleshooting Common Issues
- If your sauce becomes too thick, gradually whisk in small amounts of liquid (cream or milk).
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or reduce the cheese slightly.
- Avoid overcooking the squash strands during roasting—they should be tender but not mushy.
Make-Ahead And Storage Instructions
When it comes to planning or saving leftovers, spaghetti squash Boursin is a versatile dish that stores wonderfully. Here’s how we ensure the best make-ahead and storage practices:
Make-Ahead Tips
- Roast the Spaghetti Squash in Advance: We can prep the squash up to 3 days ahead. Roast it, scoop out the strands, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This saves time on busy cooking days.
- Prepare the Boursin Sauce Separately: For the best flavor and texture, cook the sauce fresh just before assembling the dish. However, if needed, we can prepare the sauce up to 1 day in advance. Reheat it gently on low heat before combining, ensuring it’s smooth and creamy.
- Combine Just Before Serving: To maintain the ideal texture, store the squash strands and sauce separately until we’re ready to serve.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerating Leftovers:
- Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container after allowing them to cool to room temperature.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The dish reheats beautifully while retaining its creamy consistency and flavor.
Freezing:
- We recommend freezing the squash strands separately from the sauce. Place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags labeled with the freezing date.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- While the Boursin sauce can be frozen, its texture may change after thawing. If freezing sauce, whisk it thoroughly when reheating for a smooth, creamy result.
Reheating Instructions
For perfect serving results, follow these guidelines:
- Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat leftovers in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
| Method | Temperature/Power | Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microwave | Medium Power (50-70%) | 1-2 minutes per portion | Stir between intervals for even heating. |
| Stovetop | Low Heat | 5-7 minutes | Add liquid, like milk or cream, if sauce thickens. |
By following these simple make-ahead and storage tips, we ensure that our spaghetti squash Boursin dish remains delicious and fresh whether served immediately or enjoyed later.
Conclusion
Spaghetti Squash Boursin is a delightful combination of simplicity, flavor, and versatility. It’s a dish that feels indulgent while offering a wholesome way to enjoy more vegetables. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or looking to impress guests, this recipe checks all the boxes.
With its creamy texture and rich taste, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. By following our tips and preparing ahead when needed, you’ll find it’s as practical as it is delicious. Let’s embrace the joy of cooking something that’s both comforting and nourishing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spaghetti Squash Boursin?
Spaghetti Squash Boursin is a creamy, cheesy dish made by combining roasted spaghetti squash strands with a rich Boursin cheese sauce. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that’s perfect for dinner parties or casual meals.
What ingredients are required for this recipe?
Key ingredients include spaghetti squash, Boursin cheese, heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Optional garnishes like fresh herbs or chopped nuts can also enhance the flavor.
Can I prepare parts of the dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the spaghetti squash up to three days in advance and make the Boursin sauce a day ahead. Store them separately until ready to serve for the best texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to four days or frozen for two months. Ensure the dish is stored in airtight containers for freshness.
How should I reheat the dish?
To reheat, use a microwave on medium heat or warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy consistency.
What equipment is essential for this recipe?
You’ll need a sharp chef’s knife, a sturdy cutting board, a baking sheet, a mixing bowl, and a spoon or fork for scraping the squash strands. Optional tools like a garlic press can make preparation easier.
How can I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
Cook the Boursin sauce over low heat and stir consistently. If it becomes too thick, add a small splash of heavy cream or milk to adjust the consistency.
What are the best garnishes for this dish?
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil, crushed nuts, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese are great garnishes to add extra flavor and texture.
Can this recipe suit vegetarian diets?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly since it doesn’t contain any meat. Just ensure all ingredients are vegetarian-certified if needed.
Is spaghetti squash a good substitute for pasta?
Absolutely! Spaghetti squash is a healthy, low-carb alternative to pasta, offering a similar texture with added nutrients and fewer calories.