Side Dish Mason Williams January 18, 2025 0 Comments

Boursin Cheese Recipe

If you’ve ever spread creamy, herby Boursin cheese on a slice of crusty bread or added it to a dish for that extra touch of richness, you know it’s more than just cheese. It’s a culinary marvel that elevates any meal. But did you know you can recreate this French-inspired Gournay cheese right at home? Making your own Boursin cheese is surprisingly simple and allows you to customize flavors to suit your taste.

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making homemade Boursin cheese, from its origins to a foolproof recipe. Plus, we’ll share tips to ensure your creation rivals the store-bought version.

Table of Contents

What is Boursin Cheese?

Boursin cheese originated in Normandy, France, and was first created by François Boursin in 1957. This spreadable Gournay cheese is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor, often infused with a medley of herbs and spices. Traditionally, it’s made with cow’s milk, giving it a soft, buttery consistency that melts in your mouth.

It’s a versatile ingredient that works well as a spread, dip, or addition to recipes. Whether paired with crackers, used to stuff chicken, or stirred into pasta, Boursin cheese is a game-changer in the kitchen.

Why Make Homemade Boursin Cheese?

While the store-bought version is undeniably delicious, making Boursin cheese at home has its perks:

Customizable Flavors: You can adjust the herbs and spices to create unique variations.
Fresh Ingredients: Homemade means you control the quality of what goes into your cheese.
Cost-Effective: Recreating it at home is budget-friendly, especially if you’re serving a crowd.
Fun and Rewarding: There’s something satisfying about making gourmet cheese from scratch.

What You Need to Make Homemade Boursin Cheese

To make this creamy delight, you’ll need a few simple ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry:

Base:

8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Flavorings:

2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried chives
½ teaspoon dried dill
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Boursin Cheese

1. Soften the Base Ingredients

Start by letting your cream cheese and butter sit at room temperature until they’re soft and easy to mix. This step ensures a smooth, creamy texture.

2. Mix the Base

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk to blend until the mixture is light and fluffy.

3. Add the Flavorings

Stir in the garlic, onion powder, parsley, chives, dill, and thyme. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, tasting as you go. Adjust the seasoning to suit your preference.

4. Chill the Cheese

Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least two hours. This allows the flavors to meld and develop into that classic Boursin taste.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Scoop your homemade Boursin cheese into a serving dish and garnish with extra herbs for a fresh look. Serve with crackers, bread, or fresh veggies.

Tips for Making Perfect Homemade Boursin Cheese

Experiment with Herbs: Don’t be afraid to try different combinations of herbs. Fresh basil, tarragon, or rosemary can add a unique twist.
Make it Spicy: For a kick, mix in cayenne pepper, paprika, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs are convenient, fresh ones add a vibrant flavor. Just double the quantity if substituting fresh for dried.
Portion Control: Divide the cheese into small ramekins before chilling for easy, single-serving portions.

Creative Uses for Boursin Cheese

Homemade Boursin cheese isn’t just for spreading. Here are some creative ways to incorporate it into your dishes:

Stuffed Chicken Breast: Spread Boursin inside a butterflied chicken breast, roll it up, and bake.
Pasta Sauce: Stir a dollop of Boursin into hot pasta for an instant creamy sauce.
Mashed Potatoes: Fold Boursin into mashed potatoes for a flavorful upgrade.
Vegetable Dip: Serve it as a dip for fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
Savory Crepes: Use Boursin as a filling for savory crepes with smoked salmon or sautéed mushrooms.

Final Thoughts

Making homemade Boursin cheese is easier than you might think. With simple ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can enjoy a gourmet cheese that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking to elevate your everyday meals, this recipe is a must-try.