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 for a special family gathering and everyone was enchanted by the delicious aroma and luxurious taste. It quickly became our go-to dish for celebrations.
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
- Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Butter a medium baking dish (about 2 liters or 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). Remove from heat. Stir in Gruyère, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, sea 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.
- Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save This truffle macaroni & cheese became an instant classic at our family table. Watching my kids reach for seconds and everyone share joyful smiles made the effort worthwhile.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, large pot, whisk, baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 590 calories, 32 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, 24 g protein
Variations & Pairings
Swap Gruyère for Fontina or Emmental for a different cheese profile. Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch. Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay.
Save Indulge in this gourmet comfort food, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on special evenings.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the cheese sauce well and bakes evenly.
- → How can I intensify the truffle flavor?
Add a few drops of truffle oil just before serving to enhance the aroma and taste.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used?
Yes, Gruyère can be swapped with Fontina or Emmental for a different but complementary flavor.
- → Is there a way to add more texture to the dish?
The panko breadcrumb topping mixed with Parmesan and butter creates a crunchy, golden crust after baking.
- → What wine pairs well with this creamy pasta?
A crisp white wine such as Chardonnay complements the rich, cheesy flavors perfectly.