Name: Boursin Baked Ziti Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Cooking spray; Kosher salt; 1 lb. ziti; 4 (5.2-oz.) blocks herbed Boursin cheese; 1 (15-oz.) container ricotta cheese; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves, finely chopped, plus more for serving; 1/2 cup packed fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 2 cups (8 oz.) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

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Introduction

Boursin Baked Ziti is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that combines rich herbed cheese with fresh herbs and melted mozzarella. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a casual gathering, this recipe elevates classic baked ziti with the flavorful touch of Boursin cheese.

A close-up of a baked pasta dish in a black baking pan with a single slice being lifted by a silver spatula, showing melted, stretchy white cheese pulling from the pan. The dish has one visible main layer of rigatoni pasta covered in a creamy white cheese sauce that is browned slightly on top in golden spots. Fresh small green herb pieces are sprinkled over the top, adding a touch of color. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Cooking spray
Kosher salt
1 lb. ziti
4 (5.2-oz.) blocks herbed Boursin cheese
1 (15-oz.) container ricotta
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan
1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves, finely chopped, plus more for serving
1/2 cup packed fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 cups (8 oz.) shredded mozzarella, divided

Instructions

Step 1: Place a rack in the upper third of the oven and preheat to 375°F (190°C). Grease the bottom and sides of a 13-by-9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta until al dente, about 2 to 3 minutes less than the package directions. Drain and return the pasta to the pot.
Step 3: In a large bowl, stir together the Boursin cheese, ricotta, heavy cream, Parmesan, chopped basil, chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, and 1 cup of mozzarella. Season with salt if needed.
Step 4: Stir half of the ricotta mixture into the pasta until combined. Using a spoon, dollop the remaining ricotta mixture into the pot. Stir once or twice just to evenly distribute the dollops without fully breaking them up.
Step 5: Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella.
Step 6: Cover the dish with foil and bake until the cheese is bubbling, about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and turn on the broiler. Broil, watching closely, until the top is golden brown, 2 to 4 minutes.
Step 7: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with additional finely chopped basil, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free version.
Fresh basil and parsley enhance the flavor, but you can substitute with dried herbs if fresh are unavailable—use one-third the amount.
Leftovers can be baked again with a splash of cream or milk to keep the dish creamy.

Storage

Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15–20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring midway for even heating.

How to Serve

The dish is a baked pasta with three main layers visible. The bottom layer is creamy white pasta tubes, slightly soft and covered with cheese. The middle layer is melted white cheese with a gooey, stretchy texture, pulling away on a fork at the bottom of the plate. The top layer is golden brown and slightly crispy cheese, sprinkled with small green herb bits on top. The food is served in a white bowl on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while ziti is traditional, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or any other tube-shaped pasta that holds sauce well.

Is it necessary to broil the dish at the end?

Broiling creates a golden, bubbly cheese crust on top, adding texture and flavor, but if you prefer, you can skip this step and serve it straight from the oven after baking.