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 first discovered the magic of truffle oil in mac & cheese at a small bistro and have been making it for family gatherings ever since. The aroma of truffles makes even a simple weeknight dinner feel special.
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)
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Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- 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 Roux:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Add Milk:
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Melt Cheese:
- 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 and Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Assemble Casserole:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 2 tbsp Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Finish and Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save Sharing this dish at our last holiday dinner brought everyone together, with kids and adults vying for seconds. It's a recipe everyone asks for!
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, large pot, whisk, baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 590, Total Fat 32 g, Carbohydrates 52 g, Protein 24 g
Serving Suggestions
Try pairing with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or adding sautéed mushrooms for an earthy note.
Save This truffle mac & cheese brings luxury to the table with every bite. Make it your star comfort dish at the next gathering!
Recipe Questions
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the creamy sauce well and bakes evenly with the topping.
- → How does truffle oil affect the flavor?
Truffle oil adds an earthy, aromatic richness that elevates the dish’s savory profile without overpowering the cheeses.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used?
Yes, Gruyère can be replaced with Fontina or Emmental to vary the cheese flavor while maintaining creaminess.
- → What is the purpose of Dijon mustard in the sauce?
Dijon mustard brightens the cheese sauce, adding subtle tang and depth to the overall taste.
- → How can I achieve a crispy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then sprinkle evenly before baking to create a golden, crunchy crust.
- → Is there a way to intensify the truffle aroma before serving?
Drizzling a few extra drops of truffle oil just before serving enhances the aromatic impact of the dish.
