Name: Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz short pasta (such as macaroni, shells, or similar); 1 round Boursin cheese; 1 cup grated white cheddar cheese, packed; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup plain breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp unsalted butter

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Introduction

This Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese combines creamy, flavorful Boursin cheese with sharp white cheddar for a rich twist on the classic comfort dish. With a buttery toasted breadcrumb topping, it’s simple to make and perfect for a cozy meal any night of the week.

A white oval dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese made from spiral pasta. The pasta is covered in a smooth, rich cheese sauce of pale yellow color and topped with a layer of golden brown toasted breadcrumbs, giving a crunchy texture. Small green herb sprinkles are scattered on top, adding a touch of color. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a soft beige cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz short pasta (such as macaroni, shells, or similar)
1 round Boursin cheese
1 cup grated white cheddar cheese, packed
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
1/2 tsp salt
4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup plain breadcrumbs

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, reserving a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: In the empty pasta pot or a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute until bubbly and smooth with no clumps.
Step 3: Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the Boursin cheese and grated white cheddar, stirring gently until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add the milk gradually until smooth. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
Step 4: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat every piece. If desired, add a splash of reserved pasta water or more milk to loosen the sauce. Let it sit for a minute or two to thicken slightly, gently folding the pasta to avoid breaking it.
Step 5: In a small skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the plain breadcrumbs and toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 6: Transfer the sauced pasta to serving bowls or a large dish. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs generously over the top. Serve hot and enjoy! Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

Use shells or cavatappi if you prefer more sauce pockets in the pasta.
For a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
Swap white cheddar for sharp yellow cheddar for a stronger flavor.
Press and freeze raw breadcrumbs to have them ready for quick toasting anytime.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a creamy baked pasta dish in a white oval ceramic baking dish placed on a white marbled surface with a light beige cloth partially visible on the left side. The dish has one main layer of spiral pasta coated in a thick, smooth, pale yellow cheese sauce, topped with a golden brown crumbly layer of toasted breadcrumbs sprinkled with small green herb pieces, creating a textured and slightly crispy surface. The browned topping varies in color from light to dark gold, adding contrast and visual interest. 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 cheese instead of Boursin?

Yes, creamy cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese can be used as a substitute, though the unique herb and garlic flavor of Boursin adds a special touch to this dish.

Is it necessary to toast the breadcrumbs?

Toasting the breadcrumbs in butter adds a delicious crunch and rich flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step or use pre-toasted breadcrumbs.