Print

Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 1 review

This Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese is a creamy, indulgent twist on the classic comfort dish. Featuring soft short pasta enveloped in a rich cheese sauce made from flavorful Boursin cheese, sharp white cheddar, and a creamy blend of heavy cream and milk. Topped with crispy golden breadcrumbs for the perfect contrast in texture, this recipe is quick to prepare in just 25 minutes and serves four. It’s an ideal weeknight dinner or cozy side dish that elevates traditional mac and cheese with a gourmet touch.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Cheese Sauce

  • 8 oz short pasta (such as macaroni, shells, or similar)
  • 1 round Boursin cheese (about 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 Breadcrumb Topping

  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the short pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook, whisking constantly, for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly, forming a roux that will thicken the sauce.
  3. Prepare the cheese sauce: Gradually whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of milk into the roux. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and starts to bubble gently, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in 1 round of Boursin cheese and 1 cup of grated white cheddar cheese, mixing until completely melted and smooth. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt to taste.
  4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir thoroughly to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy cheese mixture.
  5. Prepare breadcrumb topping: In a small skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 cup of plain breadcrumbs and stir frequently until breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
  6. Assemble and serve: Transfer the creamy pasta mixture to a serving dish. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumb topping evenly over the mac and cheese for a delightful crunch. Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • You can substitute the Boursin cheese with another soft, herbed cheese if unavailable.
  • For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
  • To make ahead, assemble the pasta and cheese sauce but add breadcrumbs just before serving to maintain crispiness.
  • Leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.