Description
This Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting pasta dish featuring a rich cheese sauce made with Boursin and white cheddar cheeses. Topped with buttery toasted breadcrumbs for a perfect crunchy finish, it’s an ideal quick and satisfying meal that elevates classic mac and cheese with elegant, herby flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
For the pasta and cheese sauce:
- 8 oz short pasta (such as macaroni, shells, or similar)
- 1 round Boursin cheese (approximately 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 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 aside, reserving a little pasta water for later use if needed.
- Create the Roux and 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 with no lumps. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add the entire Boursin cheese round and grated white cheddar, stirring gently until melted and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce thickens too much, gradually add up to 1/2 cup of milk to achieve a smooth, velvety consistency. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
- Toss Pasta in Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat every piece of pasta with the creamy sauce. If the mixture seems thick, loosen it with a splash of reserved pasta water or a little more milk. Let it sit for a minute or two, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly as it cools.
- Prepare Toasted 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, until golden brown and fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. This buttery toasting adds a rich flavor and crunchy texture to the dish.
- Assemble and Serve: Transfer the cheesy pasta to serving bowls or a large dish. Generously sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the top. Serve hot and enjoy! Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Saving some pasta water helps loosen the sauce without affecting its flavor.
- Use freshly grated white cheddar for best melting and flavor.
- Optionally garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley for color and brightness.
- Ensure to cook the roux (butter and flour mixture) well to avoid a raw flour taste.
- Breadcrumb topping adds a delicious crunchy texture but can be omitted for a smoother mac and cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mac and cheese, Boursin cheese, creamy pasta, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, comfort food, breadcrumb topping
