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 (about 5 oz); 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 takes the classic comfort dish to a new level with creamy, flavorful cheese sauce and a buttery breadcrumb topping. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side.

A white dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese baked with a golden brown crispy breadcrumb topping dotted with small green herb bits. The pasta is spiral-shaped, coated thickly with smooth, melted cheese that stretches as a gold spoon lifts a scoop out from the dish. The cheese sauce appears rich and creamy underneath the crunchy top layer, creating two visible layers of texture. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. 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
2 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 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 combine and prevent lumps. Add the entire Boursin cheese round and grated cheddar. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and the sauce is creamy.
Step 4: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the milk until smooth and velvety. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat every piece. If you want it looser, add a splash of reserved pasta water or more milk. Let the mixture sit for a minute or two to thicken slightly.
Step 6: In a small skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the plain breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 7: Transfer the pasta to serving bowls or a large dish. Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs generously over the top and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley for freshness.

Tips & Variations

Save a little pasta water when draining – it’s great for thinning your sauce if it gets too thick.
Try swapping the white cheddar for sharp cheddar for a more intense cheese flavor.
Add sautéed garlic or caramelized onions to the sauce for added depth.
Use panko breadcrumbs instead of plain for an extra crunchy topping.
For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture if needed. The breadcrumb topping is best added fresh to maintain its crunch.

How to Serve

The image shows a baked pasta dish in a white oval ceramic dish with green handles, placed on a white marbled surface with a cream-colored cloth beside it. The pasta is spiral-shaped and coated in a creamy, light yellow cheese sauce. The top layer is covered with a golden-brown crumb crust that is slightly toasted with some darker, crispier spots, and sprinkled lightly with green herb bits. Some toasted crumbs have fallen around the dish onto the surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, any short pasta like elbow macaroni, shells, or rotini works well because they hold the cheese sauce nicely.

Is Boursin cheese necessary, or can I substitute it?

Boursin adds a unique creamy garlic-herb flavor, but if unavailable, you can substitute with cream cheese mixed with garlic powder and herbs for a similar effect.