Introduction

Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting twist on the classic dish, featuring flavorful Boursin cheese blended with sharp white cheddar. Topped with golden toasted breadcrumbs, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or cozy meal anytime.

A close-up view of a white oval baking dish filled with a baked pasta casserole with three visible layers. The bottom layer has creamy white sauce mixed with spiral rotini pasta in off-white color. The middle layer shows more pasta coated with sauce. The top layer is golden brown crispy breadcrumbs with some small green herbs sprinkled over. The dish rests on a white marbled surface with a light-colored cloth 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 package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, reserving a little pasta water in case you need 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 prevent lumps. Add the Boursin cheese and grated white cheddar, stirring gently until melted and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add the milk gradually until smooth and velvety. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
Step 4: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat every piece. If you prefer a looser sauce, add a splash of reserved pasta water or more milk. Let the mixture sit for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly, folding gently to avoid breaking the pasta.
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 generously over the top. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, comforting mac and cheese. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
Swap white cheddar with sharp yellow cheddar or Gouda for different flavor profiles.
For extra richness, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce.
Try mixing in cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for additional texture.
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs, or skip breadcrumbs altogether.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed. The breadcrumb topping is best added fresh before serving to retain its crunch.

How to Serve

A white oval dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese made with spiral pasta, topped with a golden brown, crispy breadcrumb layer sprinkled with small pieces of green herbs. The pasta beneath is coated in a smooth, cheesy sauce that is pale yellow and looks rich and soft. The crisp topping has textured, browned spots showing it baked perfectly, and the whole dish sits on a white marbled surface with a light cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, any short pasta like shells, elbow macaroni, or cavatappi works well as they hold the sauce nicely.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Boursin cheese?

You can use cream cheese blended with garlic and herbs or a soft, spreadable cheese with similar flavor to mimic Boursin’s creamy, herby taste.