Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese recipe offers a rich and creamy twist on a classic comfort food. Combining the herbaceous and creamy Boursin cheese with sharp white cheddar creates a velvety cheese sauce that perfectly coats tender pasta. Finished with golden toasted buttered breadcrumbs for added crunch, this dish is both satisfying and flavorful, ideal for a cozy meal.
- Author: Tara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
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, reserving a little pasta water, and set aside.
- 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. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking to combine and prevent lumps. Add the entire Boursin cheese round and grated white cheddar. Stir gently until the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce. If too thick, add milk gradually until smooth and velvety. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat every piece generously. Add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Let it sit for a minute or two to thicken slightly. Fold gently to keep the pasta intact.
- 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, until golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly to develop a rich buttery crunch.
- Finish and Serve: Transfer the cheesy pasta to serving bowls or a large dish. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs generously over the top. Serve hot. Optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added color and freshness.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if necessary.
- Use a gentle folding technique when mixing pasta and sauce to prevent breaking the pasta.
- Toasted buttered breadcrumbs add great texture and flavor contrast.
- Fresh herbs like parsley can add a fresh burst of color and flavor.
- Ensure cheeses melt fully before serving for optimal creaminess.
Keywords: boursin mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese recipe, stovetop macaroni and cheese, comforting pasta dish, buttery breadcrumbs topping