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.
I remember serving this Truffle Macaroni & Cheese for a cozy family dinner, and the warm cheesy aroma with truffle oil quickly made it an instant favorite. Each bite brought smiles and requests for seconds.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 500 ml (2 cups) whole milk, 120 g (1 cup) grated Gruyère cheese, 120 g (1 cup) grated sharp white cheddar cheese, 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp sea salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1½ tbsp truffle oil (plus more for drizzling)
- Topping: 60 g (½ cup) panko breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted), 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven & Baking Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Butter a medium baking dish (about 2 liters/2 quarts).
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Roux:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce:
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Cheese & Flavorings:
- Remove from heat. Stir in Gruyère, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and truffle oil until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce:
- Add cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Transfer & Top:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 2 tbsp Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over macaroni.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Finishing Touch:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save This recipe became a family favorite when everyone gathered at the table for seconds, and the last spoonful was met with cheerful laughter.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, large pot, whisk, baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups, and spoons ensure smooth preparation and baking.
Allergen Information
This dish includes milk (dairy), wheat (gluten), and may contain mustard. Check all cheese and truffle oil labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 590 calories, 32 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, 24 g protein.
Save Enjoy this velvety truffle macaroni and cheese as a special meal or holiday treat. Its golden crust and rich taste are unforgettable.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta is best?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the creamy sauce well and bakes evenly.
- → Can other cheeses be used?
Yes, substitutions like Fontina or Emmental can offer different flavor profiles.
- → How to enhance the truffle aroma?
Drizzling a few drops of truffle oil just before serving intensifies the aroma.
- → What is the role of Dijon mustard?
Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cheese sauce.
- → Can this dish accommodate vegetarians?
Yes, it contains no meat, suitable for vegetarian diets that include dairy.
- → How to achieve a crispy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then bake until golden.