Description
A creamy and comforting Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese recipe combining rich Boursin and white cheddar cheeses with tender pasta, topped with buttery toasted breadcrumbs for an irresistible crunch. Perfect for a hearty and quick meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the pasta and cheese sauce:
- 8 oz short pasta (such as macaroni, shells, or similar)
- 1 round Boursin cheese (about 5.2 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 short pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the empty pasta pot or a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute until bubbly and smooth without lumps. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream to prevent lumps. Add the entire round of Boursin cheese and grated white cheddar, stirring gently until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually stir in the 1/2 cup milk until you achieve a smooth, velvety consistency. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat each piece evenly. If desired, loosen the mixture with a splash of reserved pasta water or additional milk. Let the mixture sit for a couple of minutes; the sauce will thicken slightly as it cools. Gently fold the pasta to avoid breaking it up while ensuring thorough coating.
- Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a small skillet, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the plain breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Toasting the breadcrumbs in butter adds rich flavor and a satisfying crunch.
- Finish and Serve: Transfer the cheesy pasta to serving bowls or a large dish. Generously sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs on top. Serve hot immediately. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
Notes
- Save some pasta cooking water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Use freshly grated white cheddar for best melt and flavor.
- Gently folding the pasta preserves its shape and texture.
- Toasted breadcrumbs enrich texture and add a flavorful crunch.
- Adding fresh herbs like parsley brightens the dish visually and with fresh notes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food, Pasta, Quick & Easy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Boursin mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy pasta recipe, comfort food, cheesy pasta, stovetop mac and cheese
