Description

A rich, indulgent, and surprisingly simple mac and cheese recipe that uses Boursin garlic and fine herbs cheese to create a silky, restaurant-quality sauce without the need for a complex roux.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound elbow macaroni or cavatappi
1 wedge (5.2 oz) Garlic and Fine Herbs Boursin cheese
2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
Optional: ½ cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining.
While pasta cooks, heat butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the wedge of Boursin cheese, breaking it into smaller pieces. Stir continuously until completely melted and smooth (about 3-4 minutes).
Reduce heat to low. Add shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
Stir in Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of black pepper.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Optional: Preheat broiler. Spread mac and cheese into a baking dish, top with breadcrumb mixture, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese to prevent anti-caking agents from affecting the texture. Ensure Boursin is at room temperature for easier melting. Do not let the cream boil vigorously to avoid separation. If the sauce becomes grainy, remove from heat and whisk in a splash of cold pasta water.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 650
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 800
Fat: 45
Saturated Fat: 25
Carbohydrates: 40
Fiber: 2
Protein: 20

Keywords: Boursin mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy dinner, comfort food, garlic herb cheese, weeknight meals