Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting twist on the classic recipe, featuring flavorful Boursin cheese combined with white cheddar, a rich cream sauce, and crispy butter-toasted breadcrumbs for added texture.
- Author: Lena
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Pasta
- 8 oz short pasta (such as macaroni, shells, or similar)
Cheese Sauce
- 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 (for sauce)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Breading
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting breadcrumbs)
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain well, reserving a little pasta water if desired, and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In the empty pasta pot or a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until bubbly and smooth, without lumps. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream to combine. Add the Boursin cheese round and grated white cheddar, stirring gently until cheeses melt and the sauce is creamy. If sauce thickens too much, gradually add up to 1/2 cup milk to achieve a smooth, velvety consistency. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat every piece. For a looser consistency, add a splash of reserved pasta water or more milk. Let the mixture sit for a minute or two to thicken slightly, gently folding the pasta to avoid breaking it.
- Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a small skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add plain breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Serve: Transfer the creamy 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 color and freshness.
Notes
- If the sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water or milk to loosen it for the perfect consistency.
- Toasting breadcrumbs in butter adds richness and an excellent crunchy texture to the dish.
- Fresh herbs like parsley can brighten up the plate and add a fresh flavor note.
- Use a gentle folding technique when mixing pasta and sauce to keep pasta shapes intact.
Keywords: Boursin mac and cheese, creamy pasta, cheese sauce, comfort food, easy mac and cheese