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Boursin Cheese Substitute: Complete Guide to Alternatives

Discover the best substitutes for Boursin cheese in any recipe. Learn about homemade alternatives, store-bought options, and perfect ratios for cooking and entertaining.

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Quick Answer

The best substitutes for Boursin cheese are homemade herbed cream cheese, goat cheese with herbs, or commercial herbed cream cheese varieties. Use 1:1 ratio and add herbs and garlic for authentic flavor.

Best Substitutes

Homemade Herbed Cream Cheese

1:1

Mix cream cheese with herbs and garlic to replicate Boursin's flavor profile. This creates an almost identical substitute that works in all recipes.

Best for:

all usescookingspreadingentertainingpasta dishes

Mix 8 oz cream cheese with 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp each chopped chives, parsley, and dill, plus salt and pepper. Let sit 30 minutes for flavors to meld.

Goat Cheese with Herbs

1:1

Soft goat cheese mixed with herbs and garlic for similar creamy texture. Goat cheese has a tangier flavor than Boursin but works well in many dishes.

Best for:

spreadingsaladspastaappetizersMediterranean dishes

Mix soft goat cheese with minced garlic and herbs. Works especially well in pasta dishes and salads.

Cream Cheese + Sour Cream + Herbs

3/4 cup cream cheese + 1/4 cup sour cream + herbs

This combination mimics Boursin's texture and tang. The sour cream adds the slight acidity that makes Boursin distinctive.

Best for:

dipsspreadscookingsaucesentertaining

Mix cream cheese with sour cream, then add herbs and garlic. This creates a texture very similar to Boursin.

Mascarpone + Herbs + Garlic

1:1

Mascarpone is richer and sweeter than Boursin but creates luxurious texture in cooked dishes. Mix with herbs and garlic for similar flavor profile.

Best for:

pastarisottosaucesdessertsluxury dishes

Mascarpone is richer than Boursin but works well in cooked dishes. Add herbs and garlic for similar flavor.

Ricotta + Herbs + Garlic

1:1

Fresh ricotta mixed with herbs and garlic works well in cooked dishes. It's lighter than Boursin but provides good flavor and texture.

Best for:

pastapizzalighter dishesbakingstuffed dishes

Fresh ricotta mixed with herbs and garlic works well in cooked dishes. It's lighter than Boursin but provides good flavor.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Let herb and garlic mixtures sit for 30 minutes before using for best flavor
  • 💡Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing
  • 💡Adjust seasonings to taste - add more garlic or herbs as needed
  • 💡Store homemade substitutes refrigerated and use within 5-7 days
  • 💡Experiment with different herb combinations like thyme, rosemary, or basil
  • 💡For pasta dishes, mix with hot pasta and a splash of pasta water
  • 💡For appetizers, serve with crackers, bread, or vegetables
  • 💡For cooking, add to risotto, stuffed dishes, or compound butters

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute cream cheese for Boursin?

Yes, but add herbs and garlic to match Boursin's flavor profile. Mix 8 oz cream cheese with 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp each chopped chives, parsley, and dill, plus salt and pepper.

What's the best store-bought substitute?

Look for herbed cream cheese varieties like Philadelphia Herbs & Garlic or gourmet cheese spreads with similar herb combinations.

Can I make Boursin at home?

Yes, mix cream cheese with minced garlic, chopped herbs, and seasonings for a close approximation. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Is Boursin the same as herbed cream cheese?

Boursin is a specific brand of herbed cheese spread, but the concept is similar to herbed cream cheese. The main difference is the specific herb blend and texture.

Summary

Find the best substitutes for Boursin cheese in any recipe. Learn about homemade herbed cream cheese, store-bought alternatives, and perfect ratios for cooking and entertaining.