Description
This Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese recipe offers a creamy, flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese by incorporating fragrant Boursin cheese and a rich blend of white cheddar and heavy cream. Topped with golden toasted breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch, this comforting pasta dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the pasta and cheese sauce:
- 8 oz short pasta (such as macaroni, shells, or similar)
- 1 round Boursin cheese (about 5 ounces)
- 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 cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside, reserving a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed later.
- 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 without lumps. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the entire Boursin cheese round and grated white cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce thickens too much, add up to 1/2 cup milk gradually until the mixture is smooth and velvety. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly to coat every piece of pasta generously with the creamy sauce. If the mixture seems thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or more milk to loosen it. Let the pasta sit for a minute or two to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Gently fold the pasta to avoid breaking it apart while mixing.
- Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a small skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the plain breadcrumbs and cook while stirring frequently until golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Toasting the breadcrumbs in butter enriches their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
- Finish and Serve: Transfer the sauced pasta to serving bowls or a large serving dish. Generously sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs on top. Serve the mac and cheese hot for optimal creaminess. Optionally, add freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Saving a little pasta water before draining helps loosen the cheese sauce if it gets too thick.
- Adjust salt at the end since Boursin and cheddar cheeses already add saltiness.
- Gently fold the pasta into the sauce to keep noodles intact and evenly coated.
- Toasted breadcrumbs add a rich texture contrast and enhance flavor.
- For variety, sprinkle fresh herbs such as parsley or chives before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Boursin Mac and Cheese, Creamy Mac and Cheese, Easy Pasta Recipes, Comfort Food, Vegetarian Mac and Cheese
