Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese recipe combines creamy, flavorful Boursin cheese with sharp white cheddar, heavy cream, and a buttery toasted breadcrumb topping. Perfectly cooked short pasta is enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, offering comforting, indulgent flavors with a delightful crunchy finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is an ideal quick and satisfying meal.
- Author: Nethan
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Comfort Food, Pasta, Quick & Easy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
- 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
For the Topping:
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Cook the Pasta: 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. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set aside, reserving a little pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: 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. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the entire Boursin cheese round and grated white cheddar. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add the milk gradually until you achieve a smooth, velvety consistency. Adjust saltiness by tasting.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring well so every piece is coated. For a looser texture, add a splash of reserved pasta water or more milk. Let the mixture sit for a minute or two to thicken slightly. Gently fold the pasta to keep it intact.
- Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a small skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. This step adds rich flavor and crunch.
- Finish and Serve: Transfer the sauced pasta to serving bowls or a large dish. Generously sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the top and serve hot. Optional: garnish with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness.
Notes
- Save a small amount of pasta cooking water to loosen the cheese sauce if needed.
- Adjust seasoning with salt after the cheese sauce is prepared as cheeses vary in saltiness.
- Gently folding the pasta into the cheese sauce helps maintain pasta shape and texture.
- Toasted breadcrumbs add a delicious crunchy texture and buttery flavor to the dish.
- Fresh herbs like parsley can enhance the presentation and add brightness to the rich dish.
Keywords: Boursin Mac and Cheese, Creamy Mac and Cheese, Easy Pasta Recipe, Comfort Food, Quick Dinner, Cheesy Pasta, Boursin Cheese Recipes