Introduction

This Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese is a creamy, flavorful twist on a classic comfort dish. The rich, herb-infused Boursin cheese combined with sharp white cheddar creates a luscious sauce that perfectly coats tender pasta. Topped with buttery toasted breadcrumbs, it’s a satisfying meal everyone will love.

A close-up of a white casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, showing about two layers: the bottom layer is pale yellow creamy pasta spirals covered in melted, stringy cheese, and the top layer is a golden brown crispy breadcrumb topping with small green herb pieces sprinkled on it. A golden spoon lifts a cheesy serving, with melted cheese strings stretching from the dish. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with some breadcrumbs scattered around. 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, saving a little pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: In the same 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 bubbly and smooth. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking to combine and prevent lumps.
Step 3: Add the entire Boursin cheese round and grated white cheddar to the sauce. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the milk until smooth. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Step 4: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat evenly. If you prefer a looser sauce, add a splash of reserved pasta water or more milk. Let sit for a minute to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
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 pasta and cheese mixture to serving bowls or a large dish. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs generously over the top before serving.

Tips & Variations

Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed—it adds a nice silkiness without thinning the flavor.
Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
For extra richness, stir in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese with the cheddar.
To make this meal vegetarian, ensure your breadcrumb topping does not contain any animal fat or add some fresh herbs for brightness.
Add cooked vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms for a more balanced dish.

Storage

Store any leftover mac and cheese covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. The breadcrumb topping is best added fresh when serving to maintain its crunch.

How to Serve

A white oval dish holds creamy macaroni pasta with visible spiral shapes, all coated in smooth, melted white cheese sauce. The top layer is covered with a golden-brown crumb topping, toasted to different shades with some darker browned spots and sprinkled with small green herb pieces. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface, and some crumbs are scattered outside the dish, adding texture to the presentation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese instead of Boursin?

Yes, you can substitute Boursin with other soft, flavorful cheeses like cream cheese mixed with herbs or goat cheese, but the distinctive herb flavor of Boursin adds a special touch.

How do I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the pasta in advance, then combine them just before serving. Toast the breadcrumbs fresh for the best texture. Store components separately if possible to prevent sogginess.