Save A decadent twist on the classic comfort food, this creamy macaroni and cheese is elevated with aromatic truffle oil and a blend of luxurious cheeses.
The first time I made this truffle macaroni & cheese, my friends could not stop asking for seconds. The aroma from the truffle oil warmed the whole kitchen and made the classic cheesy pasta extra special.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp, for sauce plus 1 tbsp melted for topping
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Whole milk: 500 ml (2 cups)
- Gruyère cheese: 120 g (1 cup), grated
- Sharp white cheddar cheese: 120 g (1 cup), grated
- Parmesan cheese: 60 g (½ cup), grated for sauce plus 2 tbsp for topping
- Dijon mustard: 1 tsp
- Sea salt: 1 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: ½ tsp
- Truffle oil: 1½ tbsp, plus extra for drizzling
- Panko breadcrumbs: 60 g (½ cup)
- Fresh parsley: 1 tbsp, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Butter a medium baking dish (about 2 liters/2 quarts).
- Cook Macaroni:
- Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until smooth and somewhat thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Cheeses & Flavorings:
- Remove the pan from heat. Stir in grated Gruyère, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and truffle oil until melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and mix until the pasta is thoroughly coated.
- Assemble:
- Spoon the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Top & Bake:
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp melted butter and 2 tbsp grated Parmesan in a small bowl. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the macaroni. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
- Finishing Touches:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with additional truffle oil and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, before serving.
Save This dish is a favorite for cozy family gatherings. Everyone loves going back for extra cheesy helpings straight out of the oven!
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, large pot, whisk, baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
This recipe contains milk and wheat ingredients. Be sure to check all cheese and truffle oil labels for allergens if you have sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 590 calories, 32 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, 24 g protein.
Save Make this decadent mac and cheese for your next dinner party or treat yourself to real comfort at home. The truffle aroma will impress everyone.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the rich cheese sauce well and bakes evenly for a creamy texture.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used?
Yes, Fontina or Emmental can replace Gruyère for a different taste profile without sacrificing creaminess.
- → How is truffle oil added to maximize flavor?
Incorporate truffle oil into the cheese sauce and drizzle a little extra over the finished dish to enhance its aroma and depth.
- → What’s the best way to get a crunchy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then sprinkle evenly before baking until golden and crisp.
- → Can mushrooms be added to the dish?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms complement the earthy tones of truffle oil and enrich the overall flavor.