Name: Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1 cup plain breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp unsalted butter

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Introduction

This Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese combines creamy, flavorful cheeses with tender pasta for a comforting meal anytime. The addition of buttery, toasted breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch that takes this dish to the next level. It’s simple to make and perfect for a cozy dinner.

A white oval dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese made from spiral pasta coated in a smooth, light yellow cheese sauce. The top layer is covered with a golden brown breadcrumb crust that is slightly crispy and sprinkled evenly with green herb bits. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with some crumbs scattered nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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
4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup plain breadcrumbs

Instructions

Step 1: 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. Drain well and set aside. Save a small amount of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: In the empty pasta pot or a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and smooth without clumps.
Step 3: Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking to combine and prevent lumps. Add the Boursin cheese and grated cheddar. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce thickens too much, add the milk gradually to reach a smooth, velvety consistency. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Step 4: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat every piece thoroughly. If desired, loosen the sauce with reserved pasta water or a bit more milk. Let the mixture sit for a minute or two as the sauce thickens slightly. Gently fold the pasta to maintain its shape.
Step 5: In a small skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 6: Transfer the sauced pasta to serving bowls or a large dish. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the top generously. Serve hot and enjoy! For added freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley if available.

Tips & Variations

If you prefer a sharper flavor, substitute half the white cheddar with aged sharp cheddar.
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Add cooked vegetables like peas or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
Try mixing in cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky twist.
If you don’t have Boursin, cream cheese with garlic and herbs can be a good alternative.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive creaminess. Toast fresh breadcrumbs separately before serving if you want to keep the topping crispy.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white bowl filled with creamy, cheesy macaroni pasta topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust sprinkled with small green herb leaves. In the foreground, a golden spoon lifts a portion showing three main layers: at the bottom, tender spiral pasta with a smooth white cheese sauce; in the middle, melted stretchy cheese strands connecting to the bowl; and on top, a crispy, crumbly, toasted breadcrumb layer with light brown and orange shades. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, short pasta shapes like shells, elbow macaroni, or cavatappi all work well as they hold the cheese sauce nicely.

What if I don’t have Boursin cheese?

You can substitute Boursin with cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs, or use another soft, flavorful cheese to maintain the creamy texture and taste.