Dinner

Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese Recipe

ByVictor Layne December 7, 2025December 7, 2025

Introduction

This Easy Boursin Mac and Cheese offers a creamy, flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. With rich Boursin cheese and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.

A close-up view of creamy macaroni and cheese with a thick layer of melted cheese sauce covering the curly pasta. On top, there is a golden brown breadcrumb crust with a slightly rough texture and small bits of herbs sprinkled throughout. A wooden spoon is scooping some of the macaroni, showing the soft pasta underneath the crunchy topping. The dish rests on a white marbled surface. 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
2 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 to loosen the sauce if needed.
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 bubbly and smooth.
Step 3: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream to combine and prevent lumps. Add the entire Boursin cheese round and grated white cheddar, stirring gently until melted and creamy. If too thick, slowly add milk until the sauce reaches a smooth, velvety consistency. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
Step 4: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat every piece. If a thinner sauce is desired, add reserved pasta water or more milk. Let it rest for a minute or two 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 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. For extra brightness, add fresh chopped parsley if available.

Tips & Variations

To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Using freshly grated cheddar will provide a smoother melt and richer flavor.
If you prefer a sharper bite, substitute half of the white cheddar with aged cheddar.
For a crunchy topping alternative, mix panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan before toasting.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave covered in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

How to Serve

A close-up image of creamy macaroni and cheese in a white dish, showing three clear layers: the bottom layer consists of soft, yellow macaroni pasta, the middle layer is thick and smooth white cheese sauce coating the pasta, and the top layer is golden-brown toasted breadcrumbs sprinkled with some green herbs. A wooden spoon is scooping a portion, mixing the layers, and the background is a white marbled surface. The cheese sauce looks rich and gooey, and the breadcrumbs add a crunchy texture on top. 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?

Yes, any short pasta like shells, penne, or rotini works well as it holds the cheese sauce nicely.

Is Boursin cheese essential for the recipe?

Boursin adds a unique garlicky and herby flavor, but cream cheese or a soft goat cheese can be substituted if needed, though the flavor profile will differ.