Description
This Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. Made with tender pasta smothered in a rich cheese sauce featuring Boursin and white cheddar, and topped with buttery toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. Perfect for a cozy meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
- 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
For the Topping:
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- 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 the pasta is cooked, drain it well and set it aside, reserving a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Prepare 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. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add the entire Boursin cheese round and grated white cheddar, stirring gently until melted and creamy. If sauce becomes too thick, add the 1/2 cup milk gradually to achieve a smooth consistency. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat all the pasta pieces generously, adding reserved pasta water or additional milk if a looser sauce is desired. Let the mixture sit for a minute or two to thicken slightly. Gently fold the pasta to keep it intact.
- Make the Breadcrumb Topping: 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 allow to cool slightly.
- Serve: Transfer the cheesy pasta to serving bowls or a large dish. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs generously over the top. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness. Enjoy your creamy, comforting mac and cheese!
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Use freshly grated cheddar for smoother melting and better flavor.
- To elevate the dish, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
- Breadcrumbs toasted in butter add a richer flavor and crunch compared to untoasted.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Boursin mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, cheesy pasta recipe, easy mac and cheese, comfort food, breadcrumb topping
