Save to Pinterest 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 truffle macaroni & cheese for a small family celebration. The blend of cheeses, topped with buttery breadcrumbs, quickly became a favorite & always gets rave reviews.
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 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 Cheese Sauce Base:
- 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 and Add 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 and Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Transfer Mix to Baking Dish:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Topping:
- 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 to Pinterest Every time we enjoy this dish, my family asks for seconds. It pairs beautifully with roast vegetables & is a hit at holiday dinners.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, large pot, whisk, baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons
Nutritional Information
Calories: 590. Total Fat: 32 g. Carbohydrates: 52 g. Protein: 24 g per serving.
Recipe Variations
Try swapping Gruyère for Fontina or Emmental, or add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor boost.
Save to Pinterest This rich, creamy truffle mac & cheese is unforgettable. Enjoy every luxurious bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → What cheeses are used in this macaroni?
The dish combines Gruyère, sharp white cheddar, and Parmesan cheese for a rich, layered flavor.
- → How does truffle oil enhance the dish?
Truffle oil adds an earthy, aromatic depth that elevates the creamy cheese sauce with subtle gourmet notes.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used?
Yes, Gruyère can be replaced with Fontina or Emmental to change the flavor profile while maintaining creaminess.
- → What’s the best way to achieve a crispy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese, then bake until golden and bubbling for a crunchy finish.
- → Are there recommendations for serving this dish?
This creamy macaroni pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay and can be complemented with sautéed mushrooms for more earthiness.