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Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 from 150 reviews

This Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese recipe offers a creamy, flavorful twist on the classic comfort food using rich Boursin cheese alongside white cheddar for an indulgently smooth cheese sauce. Paired with perfectly cooked pasta and a buttery toasted breadcrumb topping, this dish is quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the pasta and cheese sauce:

  • 8 oz short pasta (such as macaroni, shells, or similar)
  • 1 round Boursin cheese (approx. 5.2 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

For the topping:

  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. 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. Save a small amount of pasta water to loosen the sauce later if needed.
  2. 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 the mixture is bubbly and smooth with no clumps. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the Boursin cheese and grated white cheddar cheese, stirring gently until fully melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce thickens too much, gradually add the milk up to 1/2 cup to achieve a smooth, velvety consistency. Taste and adjust saltiness as needed.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir well to thoroughly coat each piece. If you prefer a looser consistency, add a splash of reserved pasta water or more milk. Let the mixture sit for a minute or two to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Fold gently to keep pasta intact.
  4. Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a small skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the plain breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. This toasting adds a rich flavor and crunchy texture to the topping.
  5. Finish and Serve: Transfer the creamy pasta to serving bowls or a large dish. Generously sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the top. Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. Enjoy your creamy, comforting Boursin mac and cheese!

Notes

  • Saving some pasta water helps loosen the cheese sauce if it becomes too thick.
  • Gentle folding preserves the shape of the pasta and ensures even coating.
  • Toasted buttered breadcrumbs add an extra layer of rich flavor and a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
  • Fresh parsley or other herbs make a nice garnish to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.
  • Adjust salt cautiously since Boursin and cheddar cheeses already add saltiness.

Keywords: Boursin mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, pasta recipe, cheesy pasta, comfort food recipe, quick dinner