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 truffle mac & cheese, my family was amazed by how much the simple addition of truffle oil transformed a beloved dish into something extra special. It quickly became our go-to for celebratory meals.
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
- Prep the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Butter a medium baking dish (about 2 liters/2 quarts).
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the 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 constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Finish Sauce:
- 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 and Assemble:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 2 tbsp Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Finish & Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save Every time we share this dish at our family table, my kids can't wait for that first spoonful & the aroma of truffle makes dinnertime feel like a special occasion.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, large pot, whisk, baking dish, mixing bowls, and measuring cups and spoons are all you need for this recipe.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (dairy), wheat (gluten), and may contain mustard.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 590 calories, 32 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, and 24 g protein.
Save This truffle macaroni & cheese brings hearty comfort and a gourmet twist to any table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the cheese sauce well and fits perfectly in baked casseroles.
- → How does truffle oil enhance the flavor?
Truffle oil adds a distinct earthy aroma that elevates the richness of the cheeses, offering a luxurious twist.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used?
Yes, Fontina or Emmental can replace Gruyère for a different flavor profile, while retaining creamy texture.
- → What is the purpose of Dijon mustard in the sauce?
Dijon mustard adds a subtle tanginess that balances the richness and deepens the overall flavor complexity.
- → How do I achieve a crispy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese, then evenly sprinkle over the dish before baking.
- → Can additional ingredients be added for more depth?
Sautéed mushrooms can be incorporated for an earthy note complementing the truffle aroma and cheese blend.