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 made this macaroni & cheese for a family dinner and everyone was astonished at how the subtle touch of truffle oil completely transformed the familiar dish into something truly 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)
Instructions
- Prep & Bake:
- 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 the milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Cheese & Flavor:
- 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 & Transfer:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly. 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 & Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save This truffle macaroni & cheese has become a celebratory dish at our gatherings, with everyone requesting it for special occasions.
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
Pair this macaroni & cheese with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay for a perfect balance.
Save Enjoy every luscious bite as the warmth and aroma fill your kitchen. Make it for a crowd or a cozy night in.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni is recommended for even sauce coating and ideal bite-size portions.
- → Can I substitute the Gruyère cheese?
Fontina or Emmental can be used as alternatives for a different cheese flavor.
- → How do I enhance the truffle flavor?
Adding a few drops of truffle oil just before serving intensifies the aroma and taste.
- → What’s a good accompaniment for this dish?
A crisp white wine like Chardonnay pairs well with the rich, creamy flavors.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy note that complements the truffle and cheese blend.