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 tried this truffle macaroni & cheese for a family celebration and everyone was amazed by how the subtle truffle flavor transformed a familiar dish into something extraordinary.
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 the baking dish:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Butter a medium baking dish (about 2 liters/2 quarts).
- Cook the pasta:
- Cook 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.
- Add milk:
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Cheese and seasoning:
- Remove from heat. Stir in Gruyère, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and truffle oil until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine macaroni and sauce:
- Add cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Assemble:
- Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
- Prepare topping:
- 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 top is golden and bubbling.
- Finishing:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save Whenever we make this truffle mac & cheese, it brings everyone to the table eager for seconds, especially on chilly nights with family gathered together.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this mac & cheese with a crisp salad and a Chardonnay for a balanced, gourmet meal.
Ingredient Swaps
Try swapping Gruyère for Fontina or Emmental, or add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor boost.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Save This elevated take on macaroni & cheese transforms comfort food into something truly special. Enjoy each creamy, truffle-infused bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use another cheese instead of Gruyère?
Yes, Fontina or Emmental cheese make great substitutes for Gruyère and offer different flavor profiles.
- → How do I enhance the truffle flavor?
Drizzle a little extra truffle oil just before serving for a more pronounced aroma and taste.
- → Is it suitable for vegetarians?
This dish is vegetarian-friendly when using cheeses with vegetarian rennet and checking truffle oil labels.
- → Can I add additional ingredients for variety?
Sautéed mushrooms or chopped fresh parsley add an earthy, vibrant touch to the finished dish.
- → What is the best wine pairing?
A glass of crisp Chardonnay complements the creamy and savory richness of the macaroni and cheese.
- → How do I achieve a crispy topping?
Mix panko crumbs with butter and parmesan, then bake until the surface is golden and bubbling.