This Simple Boursin Mac and Cheese is ultra‑creamy, dreamy, and packed with rich flavor — thanks to Boursin cheese. It’s comfort food with a gourmet twist, and it’s so easy that I make it on busy nights or whenever I want something indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how the Boursin cheese — with its garlic and herb notes — elevates classic mac and cheese without extra fuss. It’s smooth, cheesy, and has a depth of flavor that makes it feel special, even with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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pasta (elbows, shells, or cavatappi)
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butter
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all‑purpose flour
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milk (whole or 2%)
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Boursin cheese (garlic & herb)
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shredded cheddar or Gruyère (optional, for extra melt)
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salt and pepper
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breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
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fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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I cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
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In the same pot, I melt the butter over medium heat, whisk in the flour, and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
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I slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
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I reduce the heat, add the Boursin cheese (and shredded cheese if I’m using it), and stir until silky and smooth.
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I fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper.
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For a crunchy finish, I sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top and broil for a few minutes until golden.
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I garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
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I sometimes add sautéed spinach or roasted garlic for a flavor boost.
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A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne gives it a little kick.
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Rotisserie chicken stirred in makes it a full meal.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I make this gluten‑free?
Yes — I swap regular pasta for a gluten‑free version and use gluten‑free flour.
What pasta shape works best?
I like shells or elbows because the sauce clings nicely, but any short pasta is great.
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of Boursin?
You can, but I miss the garlic‑herb punch that Boursin gives. I sometimes add extra herbs if I use plain cream cheese.
Is this good for kids?
Yes, it’s creamy and cheesy — most kids love it. I omit the herbs if they prefer a plainer version.
Can I make it ahead?
I make the sauce ahead and refrigerate it; then I just reheat and stir in the pasta when ready.
Conclusion
This Simple Boursin Mac and Cheese is my go‑to when I crave rich, creamy comfort without spending hours in the kitchen. With every bite coated in garlic‑herb goodness, it’s one of those dishes I come back to again and again.
PrintSimple Boursin Mac and Cheese
This Simple Boursin Mac and Cheese is a rich and creamy twist on a classic, featuring garlic and herb Boursin cheese for an indulgent, gourmet flavor. It’s an easy, comforting dish perfect for busy nights or special comfort food cravings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (elbows, shells, or cavatappi)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (garlic & herb)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Reduce heat to low, add Boursin cheese and optional shredded cheese, stirring until smooth.
- Fold in the cooked pasta, stirring to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Add sautéed spinach or roasted garlic for more flavor.
- A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne gives it a kick.
- Stir in cooked rotisserie chicken for a heartier dish.
- Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.
- Reheat gently with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
