Creamy Boursin Gnocchi Dish

This creamy Boursin gnocchi is a quick weeknight dinner that tastes indulgent yet comes together effortlessly. It combines soft potato gnocchi with a luscious, garlicky mushroom sauce made rich by Boursin cheese. Cozy and satisfying, this dish is comfort food that feels sophisticated enough to serve for guests.

I made this the first time on a chilly evening when I craved something warm and cheesy but didn’t want to fuss. It immediately became a family favorite because the mushroom and Boursin combo is irresistible.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: helps sauté the aromatics without overpowering flavors, use extra virgin for best quality
• Butter: adds richness to the sauce and aids in caramelizing the onions and mushrooms
• Medium onion chopped: builds a sweet and savory base, pick a firm one without blemishes
• Cremini mushrooms sliced: bring earthy flavor and meaty texture, fresh and firm mushrooms work best
• Garlic cloves minced: adds a fragrant punch, fresh garlic will always elevate this dish
• Chicken broth or vegetable broth: liquid base for cooking gnocchi and creating sauce, homemade or low-sodium store-bought preferred
• Heavy or whipping cream: gives the sauce a smooth and velvety texture, choose full-fat for the creamiest result
• Uncooked potato gnocchi: the star of the dish, fresh or store-bought gnocchi both work, but stay away from frozen ones if possible
• Boursin cheese softened: creamy, garlicky cheese that melts beautifully into the sauce, allow it to come to room temperature for easier incorporation
• Salt and pepper to taste: season to balance all the flavors
• Fresh chopped parsley for serving: adds color and a fresh herby note, optional but recommended

Instructions

Sauté aromatics:

Add the oil and butter to a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, sauté the onion for 4 minutes until translucent and slightly soft. This step creates the flavor foundation, so do not rush it.

Cook mushrooms:

Add in the mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they shrink and develop a golden color. This step intensifies their umami presence.

Add garlic:

Reduce the heat to medium, then stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Garlic burns easily, so keep the heat moderate and watch carefully.

Add liquids and gnocchi:

Add in the broth, cream, and gnocchi, stirring to combine everything well. Increase heat slightly until the mixture begins to bubble gently. Cook uncovered while stirring fairly often until the gnocchi are soft and the sauce thickens considerably, about 7 minutes. If the sauce bubbles vigorously, reduce heat to avoid burning or drying out.

Incorporate Boursin:

Stir in the softened Boursin cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Remove the skillet from heat and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if using for a burst of fresh flavor and color.

I remember the first time I used Boursin in a recipe like this one it completely transformed the comfort food vibe into something decadent yet easy. It’s one of those ingredients that makes people ask for your secret.

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce will thicken as it cools; reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to restore the original texture. Avoid reheating over high heat to prevent the cream from separating.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Boursin, cream cheese mixed with a bit of garlic powder and fresh chives is a decent substitute. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cream and omit the butter, opting for olive oil instead. Vegetable broth is a good alternative to chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this gnocchi alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully. Adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or freshly grated Parmesan on top elevates the dish further.

Seasonal Adaptations

In cooler months, feel free to add chopped kale or spinach to the mushrooms for extra nutrients and color. During spring and summer, bright herbs like basil or tarragon add freshness. You could also swap the mushrooms for roasted asparagus or peas for a lighter take.

This recipe balances rich, comforting flavors with simple preparation, making it perfect for weeknights or special dinners alike.

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works well and keeps the dish suitable for vegetarians while maintaining rich flavor.

→ How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked perfectly?

The gnocchi is ready when it becomes tender and the sauce thickens, usually after about 7 minutes of simmering.

→ What type of cheese is Boursin and can it be substituted?

Boursin is a soft, creamy, herb-flavored cheese. For alternatives, cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs can be used.

→ Can I prepare this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute butter and cream with plant-based alternatives and use a dairy-free soft cheese substitute.

→ Is fresh parsley necessary for the dish?

Parsley adds a fresh, bright note to balance the richness but can be omitted if unavailable.